I called a FSBO this past week because they live on a street that I sold a home on.  I asked them what their asking price was, all the ammenities.  Then I asked them why they were not using a Realtor.  They answered that they have a niece in real estate. So now I am confused.  Anyways, they said if they sell fine, it not, that was okay.  "Then get the sign out of the yard if you don't want to sell it." Right?

June, great post.  Most of our attempts have been via mailings or emails.  We have only received one response that was a bit demeaning - the owner stated 'It don't take a rocket scientist to sell a home - a monkey could do it'  That was two months ago and the home is still on the FSBO..

June,

Great Post! I think people considering selling themselves should read your blog before making their decision.

John Powers

Selling Restaurants

Hi Tim & Pam. I hope this people know a pretty smart monkey...they are going to need one if they end up in a legal mess.  With that attitude...that is exactly one reason they need a real estate agent.  they probally have already driven off buyers with their condescending attitude.  They really know how to make a  person feel good comparing us to a monkey.....that shows you how smart they are.  Would you take the listing if they  called you back.  I would.NOT!!!

thanks for the comment

Hi Angelis.  I am surprised their niece  didn't warn them that they have just lost the most important timing of the  listing getting sold...the enthusium of a new listing.  By the time they decide to list the house it will be old news and they have lost all that marketing time they would have received FREE from an listing with an agent.  I think I would have told them also.  " I appreciate yoyr loyalty to your niece ( some loyalty they are goiing FSBO)

It would be hard to fire aa relative or a friend, if your not happy.  If you are not happy with me, and you will be.....you can fire me and not feel badly about it.  that will give them food for thought. thanks for the input

June, nice article. Actually, I have read many articles on this topic. But I think what all these articles lack are some examples. We can claim that the process is complicated. But any "for example"? To me, I think there are many cases that it is better to do FSBO. Simpley claim people should not do FSBO is not enough.

June, security is also a big issue to be discussed with FSBO's wouldn't you agree? At the very least, a realtor will be accompanying the potential buyer and will have secured an agency agreement with a name, address and phone number that has been verified. Additionally, the realtor will have verified the lender's name, address and phone number, just to be sure that the buyer is prepared and able to make an offer on the home.

Hi June, I would also include that "you as a seller, have no idea who these strangers are that you let into your home". Maybe they may alterior motives (and  be armed), ie, jewelry, prescriptions, cash or just obervering what they can get when you have driven away to shop or visit. I make sure to warn them of this danger. When they list with me, my secretary will call to schedule an appointment and an agent will be given the lockbox combo, and they will be there with the buyer; thereby removing that element of danger. 

important thing is to keep in contact with them...they will list soon

Great Topic and post June - alot of fsbo's nowadays don't have any equity to hire anyone.

Here's what I've heard my Jeff say many a time :)

Of course There are Lots of things you can do yourself Mr. FSBO!!

-self medical treatments and therapies abound on the Internet

-home improvements ....plenty of do- it yourself websites

-even fix your car yourself books with photos :)

IT's complications ....that I am experienced at dealing with Mr. FSBO....THE real WORK in selling a home is getting it to CLOSE.

If your "do it yourself sale" runs into problems with finding a ready, willing, and able quailified buyer OR negotiating a successful contract, or dealing with issues of disclosures, inspections, appraisals, underwriting stipulations, survey, deed, or title problems, escrows and possession - that's where

you need expereince of having hundreds of deals behind you so you know exactly what to do and have the full time energy and effort applied to getting it done by the contract date's end!

most ponder this and call us back

some are like this wise ol saying

" a man convinced against his will is of the same opinion still " LOL

sincerely

Grace

Thanks to all for your comments

John..you gave  me an idea..all these comments are such great ideas I think I will make a list then post it so that it can be mailed to fsbos saying it was all the ideas from members of AR.

Huniting..there is business in the fsbo market ..just need patience

Rand...your comment is a powerful statement that should be the clincher to turning the fsbo around.  It's another one for the list.

Joan...Boy are you right..today especially with the thefts and break ins, as FSBO  I wouldn't even open the door.

another good one for the list.

Travis Unless they get lucky , they will at one time give it up.  it isn't as easy as those out of real estate think

Jeff & Grace what great information to share.  This good be text book "How to approach FSBO" material

Thanks a whole bunch for all the wisdom.. we know the stenghth in numbers.

I can't help you with your questions, but I love the kitty cat.

As my other personna, I think your kitty would make a great marketing piece:

"I don't need any help. If you do, call my mom. She'll help you find a home or sell a home."

Hi Russ I love the marketing piece suggestion.  I love photos to tell a story and I couldn't wait to find a post to fit this one,  I loved it so.  Thanks for the visit.