5 Reasons Why You Should Not For Sale By Owner!

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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14630 S 4th Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85045

$1,175,000

5 Beds

4 Baths

3,976 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6756107

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

VIEWS from every room! Gated Community! Nestled against the breathtaking backdrop of South Mountain Preserve, this spacious, well maintained, move-in-ready, newly carpeted two-story residence offers unparalleled mountain views from every room. The home includes 5 large bedrooms upstairs with ample natural light and mountain views. A den/bedroom with a separate closet and bathroom is located on the ground floor and is perfect for a home office or guest room. The primary bedroom has breathtaking views, a large sitting area, and an ensuite bathroom. The dream kitchen has newer stainless steel appliances, expansive countertops, and a walk-in pantry. The open floor plan is perfect for entertaining. In a gated community with access to 100 miles of trails.

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4458 S Marion Place Chandler, AZ 85249

New

$1,175,000

5 Beds

3.5 Baths

4,620 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6789222

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to your dream home! This stunning 5-bedroom + den, 3.5-bath residence offers an impressive 4,620 square feet of luxurious living space in a highly sought-after gated community. Boasting a popular and versatile floor plan, this home is perfect for families and entertainers alike. Step inside to find a formal living room with a cozy gas fireplace, an elegant dining room, and a separate family room complete with a wet bar and second gas fireplace. The upstairs loft/game room leads to a walk-out balcony, providing additional space to relax or play. The spacious kitchen is a chef's delight, featuring rich Cherry cabinetry, granite countertops, black appliances, double ovens, and a large island with a breakfast bar. French doors open to an entertainer's paradise in the backyard! Enjoy the heated diving pool and spa with water features, expansive grassy areas, fruit trees, an extended covered patio with ceiling fans, a firepit, and a built-in BBQ. There's space for everyone to gather and make memories. One Bedroom with an attached bath is conveniently located on the main level ideal for guests. Upstairs, the elegant master retreat impresses with a double-door entry, private balcony access, and a spa-like ensuite with a two-way fireplace, soaking tub, separate shower, dual sinks, and two walk-in closets. Three oversized secondary bedrooms complete the upper level. Additional features include a 3-car garage with a service door, laundry sink and cabinets, RV gate with driveway and slab parking behind, water softener, and so much more. All situated on a spacious cut-de-sac lot. Don't miss the opportunity to see this exceptional home.

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1510 W Horsetail Trail Phoenix, AZ 85085

$1,175,000

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

4,375 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6643662

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to Sonoran Foot Hills! This reimagined home features modern light oak-style flooring & spacious open layout seamlessly connecting the living, dining, and gourmet kitchen areas. The kitchen boasts GE Profile stainless steel appliances, including wall ovens and a gas cooktop. Enjoy modern convenience with remote-controlled blinds and custom exterior sunshades. With 4 Bedrooms, 3.5 Bathrooms a loft & office the floorplan has something for everyone The lavish master suite offers a private retreat with an oversized closet. Outside, the backyard is a standout with putting green, sparkling pebble tec pool w/ water features and built in BBQ. Property on over 2/3 Acre lot and non-obstructive mountain views, this home blends elegance with functionality in a serene private escape.

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4267 E Weather Vane Road Gilbert, AZ 85296

$1,175,000

5 Beds

3.5 Baths

4,521 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6786947

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Stunning former model home that combines timeless elegance w/ contemporary upgrades. Step through the custom tile foyer into a sophisticated formal dining room, complete w/a coffered ceiling that adds architectural charm. Designer Chef's kitchen features white maple cabinetry,granite countertops,stainless appliances & generous walk-in pantry. A large center island w/seating is perfect for casual meals or hosting guests. The open living room boasts soaring 25-foot ceilings & impressive built-in cabinetry. Ground floor primary retreat w/spacious bath that includes dual vanities,soaking tub,walk in shower & two walk in closets. 12 ft slider opens the living room to the beautiful backyard w/covered patio & pool. Ascend the elegant spiral staircase to the 2nd floor, where you'll find 4 well appointed bedrooms, each featuring ample closet space. A bonus room and a dedicated media room offer additional flexibility for a home office, gym, or entertainment area.Located in the desirable Morrison Ranch neighborhood, this home offers an incredible living space. This is truly a gorgeous property with too many exquisite details to mention that must be seen to be fully appreciated.

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17304 E Alta Loma Drive Fountain Hills, AZ 85268

$1,175,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,457 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6692629

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to your own private oasis nestled in the highly coveted gated neighborhood of Arriba Del Lago. Located just steps from the fountain with breathtaking fountain and Red Rock mountain views from nearly every location in the house. The front patio with private pool is the perfect spot to enjoy all that nature has to offer. Sliding doors from the large Dining/Family room open to your front oasis from the heart of the open kitchen with brand new appliances. The living room provides a cozy space for gathering around Fire and connects seamlessly. Primary bedroom has a private retreat at rear of the home where tranquility abounds. Primary bath has been updated with all modern updates, A huge office/bedroom and guest room both have private patios at the back of the house. Freshly painted

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19232 N Cathedral Point Court Surprise, AZ 85387

$1,175,000

2 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,628 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6729449

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Stunning Cambridge on the 11th hole of Cimarron GC. Triple fairway, mountain & water views! Open great room plan w/ custom floating wall for the media center, gas fireplace & granite hearth. The kitchen is an entertainers delight w/ Monogram gas cook top & vent, SS refrigerator & convection microwave & wall oven. Kitchen island & breakfast bar. Silestone Quartz counters t/o the home. Luxury vinyl flooring t/o & tile in the bathrooms. The primary suite has a door to the back patio, double sinks, free standing tub & tiled shower. En suite guest bedroom & bathroom. Wet bar has a mini refrigerator & cabinet lighting. Den features a custom built-in desk. Extended 2.5 car garage. HVAC 2020. Enjoy the AZ sunsets from the exquisite back yard w/ travertine, heated pool, fire pit & built-in-BBQ.

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10050 E Mountainview Lake Drive Unit 2 Scottsdale, AZ 85258

$1,175,000

2 Beds

3 Baths

2,501 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6734253

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

Indulge in resort-style living in Mountainview Lake Estates, an exclusive gated enclave of 68 gated townhomes with a charming Spanish Colonial ambiance, lush lawns, vibrant flowers, and palm trees. The 2,501sf home features a stunning living room with a 20+ foot clerestory wall of windows, a vaulted tongue-and-groove wood ceiling, and panoramic views. Furnishings are available on a separate Bill of Sale, ensuring a memorable turnkey experience. The updated kitchen includes a charming breakfast room, and the north-facing patio is ideal for alfresco dining. A paneled den adjoins the foyer. Upstairs, two primary suites offer spa-like bathrooms and scenic views of the lagoon and the McDowell Mountains. Residents can enjoy their two community pools- The Lagoon and the Lion's Head. In addition residents have access to the Scottsdale Ranch Community Center and Tennis. The community is near by all of Scottsdale's fine dining, shopping, and entertainment options.

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31811 N 16th Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85085

$1,175,000

5 Beds

4.5 Baths

4,830 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6735613

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Look at the Price per square foot! Prepare to be captivated by this awe-inspiring Santa Barbara-style residence, boasting 5 spacious bedrooms and 4.5 luxurious baths, along with a generous finished basement that's perfect for entertaining or relaxation. The exterior charm features a striking stone façade, a 3-car garage, and meticulously designed desert landscaping that complements the inviting courtyard, creating an ideal first impression. Inside, the interior showcases elegant new wood floors in both the family room and kitchen, enhancing the overall aesthetic. A cozy two-way fireplace serves as a focal point for both the family room and den, while an abundance of dual pane windows floods the space with natural light. The formal dining room is perfect for gatherings. The spacious den can serve as a quiet retreat or home office. The fully finished basement, complete with new carpet in the bedrooms, provides additional living space for guests or family activities. Culinary enthusiasts will appreciate the chef's dream kitchen, fully equipped with a brand-new oven, an expansive island featuring a breakfast bar, a walk-in pantry, and ample cabinet space for storage. The romantic owner's suite is a true sanctuary, offering private access to the serene backyard, and a spa-like bathroom complete with dual sinks, a separate tub and shower, and a generous walk-in closet for all your storage needs. Step outside to discover an entertainer's dream backyard, where you can unwind around the gas fire pit beside the sparkling pool, indulge in the built-in BBQ for alfresco dining, and relax in the spa while soaking in the breathtaking mountain views. This splendid home combines elegance, comfort, and functionality in a way that is truly unforgettable. A must-see gem that you won't want to miss!

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3837 N 43rd Street Phoenix, AZ 85018

$1,175,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,010 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6739682

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This spectacular fully remodeled property (2024) in Arcadia Lite has upscale finishes, an insulated 4-car garage, new HVAC units, versatile outdoor spaces, an oversized lot, and a highly desirable floor-plan. Step inside this organic-modern home filled with natural earth tones and fresh modern elements. The light and airy interior with timeless materials is perfect for entertaining, coupled with a relaxing front AND backyard patio. Pool plans for the yard have been drafted by professionals and are available. The custom-designed kitchen features high-end appliances and fixtures, under cabinet lighting, lots of storage, and a unique wine storage space off the dining area. The gorgeous laundry/pantry room has ample storage, a sink, and quartz countertops. The spectacular primary bathroom has all the right design traits for maximum relaxation and restoration. Out in the spacious backyard you'll find a secluded greenery space including a Hong Kong orchid and citrus, a custom built outdoor kitchen, and a blank slate backyard ready for your touch. A big highlight of the property is the detached 900sf garage that could be converted into a casita or ADU. This is truly a one of a kind property with features you won't find in similar priced homes. PAID OFF solar!

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4497 E Carriage Way Gilbert, AZ 85297

$1,175,000

7 Beds

4.5 Baths

5,816 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6744372

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

*$110K price reduction* Welcome to this beautiful Toll Brothers basement home in award winning Power Ranch. Offering 7 bedrooms + a den + a loft, 3 car garage and swimming pool with rock waterfall and slide. End the evening by the fireplace in the living room. Entertain or cook for loved ones in the grand kitchen with spacious island with copper island sink, built in double ovens, farm sink and much more. Basement includes two bedrooms, one full bath, game room/family room + storage closet. Main level includes a den, living room, dining room w/ adjacent butler's pantry, family room & the incredible kitchen and breakfast nook, a pantry and laundry room. The top level includes a private primary suite with sitting room, an updated bath with stand-alone tub, walk in shower with gorgeous work, dual vanities and a walk-in closet. Down the hall is a loft with two bedrooms on each side of the loft - and two bathrooms. Enjoy Arizona outdoor living in the pool with new pebble Tec and have fun for hours sliding down the waterslide.

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2133 W Tanya Trail Phoenix, AZ 85086

$1,175,000

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

3,065 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6755847

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Priced to Sell! A $50,000 price adjustment brings this property to an attractive $383.36 per square foot. Don't miss this exceptional opportunity to own a highly upgraded, newly constructed home (built in 2022) situated on a spacious one-acre lot with no HOA. This highly sought-after NextGen Builders Prescott floor plan offers an exceptional living experience with its thoughtfully designed layout. The residence features a great room floor plan, encompassing four bedrooms, three and a half bathrooms, and an additional office/den. The home is elegantly appointed with high-end finishes, a chefs kitchen including Wolf & Sub Zero appliances, and exhibits a refined, tasteful design. The backyard is designed for low-maintenance living, complete with a covered patio, generous artificial turf space, ramada, and a large paver pad. Additionally, half of the lot remains a blank canvas, ready for you to add your personal touch.

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11044 N 36th Street Phoenix, AZ 85028

$1,175,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,169 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6756829

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Rare half acre lot in Phoenix! Amazing renovations recently done on this charming 4 bed/2 bath house on enormous lot! Press coffee, the newly renovated Paradise Valley Mall area, all the shops/dining at Tatum & Shea are only minutes away, and direct 51 freeway access is a 2 minute drive from your house. House opens up directly to large living, dining, and kitchen space, perfect for entertaining. Large backyard with mature landscape and plenty of room for entertaining or putting in a new pool. There is a separate office space in the in backyard as well as a large separate garage space with 952 sq/ft that could be turned into an income property, mother in law suite or workshop with separate entrance and private backyard space. Incredibly unique property in the heart of the city.

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