5 Reasons Why You Should Not For Sale By Owner!

5 Reasons Why You Should Not For Sale By Owner! | Simplifying The Market

In today’s market, with home prices rising and a lack of inventory, some homeowners may consider trying to sell their homes on their own, known in the industry as a For Sale by Owner (FSBO). There are several reasons why this might not be a good idea for the vast majority of sellers.

Here are the top five reasons:

1. Exposure to Prospective Buyers 

Recent studies have shown that 94% of buyers search online for a home. That is in comparison to only 16% looking at print newspaper ads. Most real estate agents have an internet strategy to promote the sale of your home. Do you?

2. Results Come from the Internet

Where did buyers find the homes they actually purchased?

  • 51% on the internet
  • 34% from a Real Estate Agent
  • 8% from a yard sign
  • 1% from newspapers

The days of selling your house by just putting up a sign and putting it in the paper are long gone. Having a strong internet strategy is crucial.

3. There Are Too Many People to Negotiate With 

Here is a list of some of the people with whom you must be prepared to negotiate if you decide to For Sale by Owner:

  • The buyer who wants the best deal possible
  • The buyer’s agent who solely represents the best interest of the buyer
  • The buyer’s attorney (in some parts of the country)
  • The home inspection companies, which work for the buyer and will almost always find some problems with the house
  • The appraiser if there is a question of value

4. FSBOing Has Become More And More Difficult

The paperwork involved in selling and buying a home has increased dramatically as industry disclosures and regulations have become mandatory. This is one of the reasons that the percentage of people FSBOing has dropped from 19% to 8% over the last 20+ years. 

The 8% share represents the lowest recorded figure since NAR began collecting data in 1981.

5. You Net More Money When Using an Agent 

Many homeowners believe that they will save the real estate commission by selling on their own. Realize that the main reason buyers look at FSBOs is because they also believe they can save the real estate agent’s commission. The seller and buyer can’t both save the commission.

Studies have shown that the typical house sold by the homeowner sells for $185,000, while the typical house sold by an agent sells for $245,000. This doesn’t mean that an agent can get $60,000 more for your home, as studies have shown that people are more likely to FSBO in markets with lower price points. However, it does show that selling on your own might not make sense.

Bottom Line

Before you decide to take on the challenges of selling your house on your own, let’s get together and discuss the options available in your market today.  Give me a call – J.P. Cook – 602-320-4253.

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10679 E Fanfol Lane Scottsdale, AZ 85258

$1,395,000
4 Beds
3 Baths
3,260 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6719440
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Stunning custom-built residence nestled on over a third of an acre within the exclusive confines of a gated community in Scottsdale Ranch! This home is a seamless blend of sophistication and comfort, perfectly suited for both formal gatherings and everyday relaxation. Architectural marvels such as stately columns and graceful archways adorn the interior, while an abundance of windows invite natural light to cascade throughout, offering picturesque vistas of the sprawling backyard oasis and the sparkling pool area. Luxurious stone and wood flooring grace every corner, leading you to a chef's kitchen boasting expansive granite countertops, state-of-the-art stainless-steel appliances, and a striking drop-down vent hood. Entertain in style within the expansive family room, complete with complete with soaring ceilings, a cozy fireplace, and a sleek media center. Retire to the primary suite, featuring a private fireplace, access to a secluded patio retreat, and a spa-like bath replete with a raised garden tub, and a glass-enclosed shower. The immense walk-in closet offers ample storage for even the most discerning fashion enthusiast. Outside, revel in the joys of outdoor living beneath the expansive covered patio, where guests can gather for soirées or take a refreshing dip in the pool, all while savoring al fresco dining beneath the shaded ramada. Experience the epitome of luxury living in this meticulously crafted sanctuary!

189 W Eagle Nest Road Williams, AZ 86046

$1,395,000
3 Beds
3 Baths
3,477 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6738670
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This authentic log cabin is a harmonious blend of ornate elegance and rugged charm, ready to welcome you home. 5,000 gal cistern & water delivery available. NOA HOA! VRBO & AIRBNB friendly. Room for RV parking, toys, plus a 5+ stall barn with turnouts, electricity & water, and equipped with separate 2,500 gal cistern. This home is a true log cabin retreat! Soaring ceilings and a hearty central fireplace anchors the living room with spectacular views to the east. This cabin is expertly insulated for a warm and inviting atmosphere year-round. Unique copper countertops in the kitchen & laundry room are sure to impress guests and perfectly complement the rustic feel to the home. The master bedroom offers a spacious ensuite and access to the back deck for serene mornings watching the sun rise. Wood floors add to the timeless appeal, while the cozy den features floor-to-ceiling shelving ready to house your favorite afternoon reads. Upstairs, the loft sits quaintly across the stone fireplace and leads to an adjoining bedroom with private deck access. AVAILABLE FOR ONLY A SHORT PERIOD OF TIME. DON'T WAIT TO MAKE YOUR MOVE.

7531 E Hazelwood Street Scottsdale, AZ 85251

$1,395,000
3 Beds
3 Baths
2,097 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6756655
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
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12425 E Via De Palmas Road Chandler, AZ 85249

$1,395,000
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,457 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6753372
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Seller is offering $20,000 for flooring credit or rate buy down! Don't miss this incredible opportunity to own a custom single-story home with no HOA, nestled on nearly 1.5 acres of beautifully maintained grounds in the highly sought-after county islands of Chandler. This charming property boasts mature fruit trees, lush grass, and a variety of plants, offering a serene retreat with ample space for your animals—pigs, cows, chickens, horses, and more are welcome here! Enjoy the ultimate outdoor living experience with a private pool shaded by mature trees, perfect for relaxation and entertaining. The expansive lot provides plenty of room to park all your toys and trailers, with additional storage in the 3-car garage, complete with cabinets for convenience. Inside, you'll find 4 spacious bedrooms and 2.5 baths, featuring fresh paint and new carpet throughout. The Saltillo tile in the living areas complements the home's country style, while high ceilings and abundant windows create an inviting, airy atmosphere. Recent upgrades include a brand-new roof (2024) and a 2-stage AC system installed in 2022. The home is equipped with Tesla solar panels with a low lease payment of just $106 per month, and bird netting to protect both the solar panels and roof. For your entertainment, surround sound is pre-wired both inside and out. This irrigated lot is grandfathered in for all your watering needs, and the property includes a reverse osmosis system. There's even a reinforced area off the master bedroom for your heavy aquarium tank, plus new smoke alarms throughout. With twice-weekly trash service and city water, this home offers modern convenience in a tranquil setting. Homes like this are a rare find, so don't let this opportunity pass you by. Stop by today and discover the charm and possibilities this unique property has to offer! ***Tree List*** Apple, Apricot, Plum, Grapefruit, Orange, Lemon and Pomegranate.

12789 W Via Caballo Blanco -- Peoria, AZ 85383

$1,395,000
4 Beds
4.5 Baths
3,825 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6757074
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
CURRENT INCENTIVE: $30k seller credit to use however Buyer chooses. If you want custom touches, this is it! Sensational Tuscan inspired home in Blackstone with breathtaking greenbelt and mountain views from the courtyard. Fall in love with this resort style backyard with raised pool, spa, firepit, synthetic grass, and travertine extended patio! Quite possibly the most customized TW Lewis home in all of Blackstone with over $387,000 worth of custom touches after the home was built! This original owner didn't miss a single detail inside or out! Beautiful 24'' x 24'' designer flooring, custom baseboards & crown molding, custom chandeliers & designer window treatments throughout! This Gourmet Kitchen is perfection with oversized custom island with high end granite slab and ogee edge. Designer stacked cabinets with glass fronts. Upgraded GE Monogram appliances with Built-in Refrigerator. Double ovens & warming drawer. Pot filler above the gas cooktop. Custom backsplash. Built-in wine rack. Custom built-in desk space with granite slab in the Sun Room off the Chef's Kitchen. Primary Suite features one of the most beautiful bathrooms you will find. Marble shower with 3 shower heads and 4 body sprayers. Extra large shower glass, Penhaglion claw foot standing tub, granite slab counters, and custom lighting! If you're looking for a home with dual primary suites, this is the closest you will find with oversized Guest Suite at the front of the home with custom Bath! Full list of upgrades and custom touches in the Documents Tab. This home is located in the perfect spot with nobody in front. Enjoy beautiful desert, park, and mountain views from the tuscan inspired front courtyard!

6907 E Teton Circle Mesa, AZ 85207

$1,395,000
5 Beds
3.5 Baths
4,300 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6780657
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
CITY LIGHTS AND MOUNTAIN VIEWS! Luxurious living at its finest in this unique masterpiece nestled on a desirable cul-de-sac! Resort-like backyard is an outdoor oasis for entertainers. Its covered patio, putting green, built-in BBQ, completely remodeled shimmering pool & spa with water features, exterior fireplace, trampoline, and colorful sunsets make it a true wonder. Awe-inspiring interior boasts breathtaking attention to detail, a blend of wood-look tile & carpet flooring, plantation shutters, soaring ceilings, stylish light fixtures, ceiling fans, and pre-wired surround sound for an immersive experience. Additional highlights include a living room, formal dining room, flexible den located upstairs, bonus room, and a modern great room enhanced by a cozy fireplace, and custom built mantel. Gorgeous kitchen displays ample cabinets adorned with crown moulding, a pantry, granite counters, a breakfast bar, a center island, high-end GE Profile SS appliances such as a built-in refrigerator, wall oven & gas cooktop, and a breakfast nook with a bay window. Owner's retreat will impress you with a double door entry, balcony access, and an en suite equipped with dual sinks, make-up desk, soaking tub, and a walk-in closet. Glass double doors lead to adjoining bedroom making it perfect for den/office or nursery. Very large third upstairs bedroom is attached to the hall bathroom allowing for easy access. It also has a walk-in closet, and designer details. Fourth upstairs bedroom opens onto its own small terrace through sliding glass doors. Spacious walk in closet and this room has a unique curved wall as a design feature. There is also an additional bedroom downstairs with an en suite bathroom. With a 3-car garage, mature landscape, and a gated courtyard. Three bay garage has built in floor to ceiling storage cabinets and space for additional fridge or freezer. Two AC units are York 16.5 Seer Variable Speed Units installed in 2019. Home is located in sought after Las Sendas Community with access to parks, pools, tennis courts, pickleball courts, golf course and gym. Positioned on hiking/mountain biking trail with access adjacent to property leading to Hawes Trail System of Tonto National Forest. Salt River is 5 minutes away. Saguaro Lake is 20 minutes away providing endless outdoor recreational opportunities. Top rated Las Sendas Elementary School, Pathfinder Academy and ALA Mesa North are all a short distance away. Fremont Junior High and Red Mountain High School are the local upper grade schools.

7301 E 3rd Avenue Unit 402 Scottsdale, AZ 85251

$1,395,000
2 Beds
3 Baths
2,447 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6783366
Property Type Apartment
Price Type --
Step into luxury living at its finest! This property offers awe-inspiring interiors , creston system for lights and music with meticulous attention to detail. Marvel at soaring ceilings, wood-look flooring, and a wine cellar. Enjoy expansive windows, recessed lighting, and stylish ceiling fans throughout. The spacious living room is perfect for entertaining. Indulge in the outstanding eat-in kitchen with high-end appliances, lavish marble counters, and a large island with a breakfast bar. Upstairs, discover a versatile loft ideal for a second room or entertainment area. Retreat to the grand main suite, flooded with natural light and featuring a sitting area with breathtaking outside views. Pamper yourself in the pristine ensuite with a walk-in closet. Don't miss out!

17770 E Paria Canyon Drive Rio Verde, AZ 85263

$1,395,000
2 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,186 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6750401
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
CORNER LOT & BREATHTAKING MOUNTAIN VIEWS!! Experience Luxury Living in this beautiful Brasada Residence located in the coveted Trilogy at Verde River. This modern Spanish-style home is perched on the North facing Premium Homesite and is designed to capture UNPARALLELED MOUNTAIN VIEWS and dramatic ever changing Arizona sunsets from both the front and back patios. Front courtyard leads you into an open floor plan with an alluring great room, striking kitchen, and light and open dining room. Gourmet GE Monogram Appliances, large granite center island, custom lighting and stunning cabinetry in the kitchen offers a rich and upgraded look. Exuding warmth and sophistication this home is designed to feature distinctive elements such as large Den, upgraded flooring throughout, custom window treatments, stunning upgraded primary bath, epoxy coated 3 bay Garage with custom built-in cabinets, both Water Softener and Reverse Osmosis and so much more. The expansive primary bedroom and bathroom offer a luxurious retreat, complete with a tub, shower, and dual vanity. The second guest room comes with its own en suite bath, ensuring comfort and privacy. The entire Great Room area of the home features sliding Wall of Glass and opens for an optimal indoor/outdoor experience. Other notable upgrades include the Lake View, Insulated and climate controlled garage, Solid core interior door, Custom barn door in primary bedroom and a lot more. Spacious outdoor living has an extended covered patio with travertine tile and a custom landscaping. Did I mention THE VIEW? IT'S MAGNIFICENT!! Resort Lifestyle and a home to be treasured and appreciated! Trilogy at Verde River offers upscale Resort living at its finest and the very best of all possible worlds, close to the conveniences of affluent North Scottsdale yet secreted within the pristine privacy of the Sonoran Desert. The amenities are World Class with Tom Lehman inspired eighteen-hole Golf course, tennis courts, pickle ball courts, and bocce ball, heated lap pool and Resort style swimming pool, hot tub, Afterburn fitness center, Helen's demonstration Kitchen for cooking classes and a 7.5 acre dog park. The community center has casual poolside dining at Eddy's Diner and gourmet dining at award-winning Needle Rock Kitchen and Tap, Alvea Spa with full-service Salon and Spa amenities, Art Loft and events center. Trilogy at Verde River is adjacent to the Tonto National Forest and is situated in the middle of miles and miles of hiking and biking trails. Whether you're seeking a second, winter home, or will live here year-round, Trilogy at Verde River is an ideal distance from the hustle and bustle of North Scottsdale. Attitudes here are different; there's a sense of community. You'll love the Resort living! What memories will you make?

4205 E Edgemont Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85008

$1,395,000
5 Beds
4.5 Baths
3,815 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6786927
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Beautifully remodeled home in lower Arcadia! This rare basement home with high ceilings has an unbelievable floor plan that accommodates many living situations...be it the need for a couple home offices, multi-gen living, kids/teenagers, etc... This is truly a flexible floor plan! This stunning home boasts over 3800 sq ft with 5 bedrooms and 4.5 baths. As a bonus, none of the bedrooms have shared walls for added privacy. Basement includes a fabulous bonus room complete with a wet bar/kitchenette. Move in ready...don't miss out!

6514 N 85th Place Scottsdale, AZ 85250

$1,395,000
6 Beds
5 Baths
3,540 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6761679
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
RARE OPPORTUNITY to own this spacious 2,600 sq ft main house + 940 sq ft SINGLE LEVEL GUEST HOUSE in Park Scottsdale backing to the CANAL! UNICORN PROPERTY has ENERGY EFFICIENT & SMART HOME features galore! Main house & guest house are each UPDATED & equipped w/their own 2-car attached garages ~ Main house tri-level offers 5 bedrooms & 3.5 baths ~ Main house bright & modern kitchen w/soft close white cabinets extending to the ceiling, QUARTZ COUNTERTOPS, INDUCTION COOKTOP, built-in oven, under-cabinet lighting, LARGE KITCHEN ISLAND w/seating & storage, STAINLESS STEEL APPLIANCES & a reverse osmosis system ~ Main level features living room/great room, large laundry room, bedroom w/door to backyard & a half bath ~ Upstairs features a primary en-suite, 2 add'l bedrooms & a guest bathroom ~ Primary bedroom has 3 separate closets, an en-suite bathroom w/a luxurious Japanese STEAM SHOWER w/multiple shower heads ~ Lower level/downstairs offers a versatile great room & entertaining space w/an electric fireplace, bedroom, a full bathroom, & office space PLUS a WALKOUT BASEMENT exit to backyard ~ Whole home & ENERGY-EFFICIENT updates including LED LIGHTS, SPRAY FOAM INSULATION, AC MINI-SPLITS in every bedroom for precise temperature control, max efficiency & NEWER ROOF (DEC 2023) w/REFLECTIVE SHINGLES for heat resistance, complete w/a transferable warranty & 200AMP ELECTRICAL PANEL ~ SMART HOME designed to make life easier w/motorized curtains, Alexa controlled Lutron lighting & music, internet enabled locks, security cameras & garage doors ~ 2 car attached garage w/EPOXY floors, abundance of storage cabinets, attic storage (that stays cool even in the summer!) and a 50 amp EV charging plug. The spacious GUEST HOUSE features 1 bedroom + a den/office, 1.5 baths & its own private outdoor space ~ The large eat in kitchen is equipped w/matching STAINLESS STEEL Whirlpool appliances, white cabinets w/glass fronts, GRANITE COUNTERTOPS & under-cabinet lighting ~ Primary bedroom has en-suite bathroom w/a bathtub & luxurious shower w/MULTIPLE SHOWER HEADS, a Toto washlet toilet w/ BIDET & updated vanity ~ The guest house has it's own attached garage w/epoxy floors & tons of cabinets w/storage & a newer HVAC system ~ Smart features in the guest house include Alexa controlled music & lights ~ Perfect for friends or family, multi-generational home, or as a rental property, offering excellent income potential as a short- or long-term rental. Main house and guest house have recently had new EXTERIOR STUCCO & PAINT (Sept 2024) and the SUPPLY & SEWER LINES FULLY REPLACED including all the way out to the street (2016). The backyard is an entertainer's paradise, featuring a large covered patio w/recessed lighting, artificial turf, a putting green, & a motorized RV gate updated to alley angle to enable longer vehicle entrance & a concrete parking pad ~ 50 amp RV charging plug on side of house & RV hookup for sewer, power & ethernet. This oversized cul-de-sac lot backs up directly to the canal, offering stunning views of Camelback Mountain and easy access to the Scottsdale Greenbelt for biking, jogging & dog walking ~ Located in the highly desirable Park Scottsdale community, this home offers a prime location within walking distance to the canal, Scottsdale Greenbelt, Chaparral Park, and top-rated schools like Saguaro High School and Pueblo Dual Immersion Spanish Elementary ~ Enjoy being just minutes from Scottsdale Community College, Old Town Scottsdale, Fashion Square, Talking Stick Baseball Fields the 101 Freeway and so much more!

8620 E San Miguel Avenue Scottsdale, AZ 85250

$1,395,000
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,677 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6786774
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Discover this one-of-a-kind South Scottsdale gem, offering unparalleled style, comfort, and convenience. Featuring two master suites, an incredible backyard with a heated pool, and a fully remodeled interior with modern mid-century charm, this property is truly special. The home is turnkey, with all furnishings available for purchase. Outdoor amenities include natural gas hookups for a firepit and BBQ, plus a spacious 2-car garage with 4 additional parking spaces. Bright and inviting, this home captures the South Scottsdale lifestyle, perfect for foodies, winter visitors, and year-round residents. Our motivated seller is offering everything in the home at an attractive price with the right offer. Check out the EV Charging Station in the garage. Please pop over and visit us today!

4219 E Janice Way Phoenix, AZ 85032

$1,395,000
6 Beds
3 Baths
3,180 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6786822
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
North Phoenix Living at Its Finest!! Discover this incredible property, perfectly situated on a sprawling 1/3-acre cul-de-sac lot. This unique home offers two living spaces in one, with separate yet connected additional quarters featuring their own entrance, two kitchens, and two master bedrooms—all on a single level. The backyard is an oasis of fun, complete with a massive heated pool, supported by two propane tanks, and ample space for relaxation or play. Fully furnished* and move-in ready, the home boasts a huge main living area and endless amenities designed for comfort and versatility. Truly a must-see, this property offers an exceptional lifestyle for families, entertainers, and anyone seeking space and style. (*Furnishings negotiable.) Please pop over and see us!

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