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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12535 N 87th Drive Peoria, AZ 85381

$610,000

5 Beds

3 Baths

3,026 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6783306

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

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140 E Coronado Road Phoenix, AZ 85004

$610,000

3 Beds

3 Baths

2,650 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6752538

Property Type Apartment

Price Type --

RARE historic Villa del Coronado two units have been combined to bring you 2,650 bright & spacious livable square feet, 3 bedrooms & 3 bathrooms with 3 private view patios outside extensive walls of glass w/ pool & tree top views in this highly desired Central Phoenix location. The midcentury modern development was carefully designed and constructed by renowned real estate developer Lionel V. Mayell (known to be the pioneer of early midcentury garden living). It is positioned adjacent to the Phoenix Theatre & Art Museum. It is also minutes from the Heard Museum, Roosevelt Row Arts District, shopping, Light Rail, & in addition to iconic restaurants such as Durant's. Community features 2 large pools and expansive park-like grassy lawns where you can BBQ, relax, & enjoy beautiful sunny AZ afternoons. This home is inclusive of an inside laundry (accommodating full size washer/dryer), gas cooktop, 2 refrigerators, and 2 garage spaces w/ storage. The HOA covers all your utilities (gas, water, electric, sewer, trash, & exterior maintenance) & property taxes. The modern updated design is ready for move in - no work/remodeling needed. This is a step up from a regular cooperative, as each unit has its own Warranty Deed.

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5060 S Las Mananitas Trail Gold Canyon, AZ 85118

$610,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,184 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6767301

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

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3940 S Velero Street Chandler, AZ 85286

$610,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,120 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6767814

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Location, location, location! This spacious home has it all! Four bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms, formal living & dining rooms, family room, 3 car tandem garage and sparkling pool! This home has lots of natural light and an open, split bedroom floor plan. The kitchen has a kitchen island with breakfast bar and overlooks the family room with gas fireplace. The kitchen range is currently gas; however, it is wired for an electric stove. Inside laundry with cabinets is off kitchen area. The Primary bedroom has an en suite bathroom with separate shower & tub, dual sink vanity and large walk-in closet. The low maintenance backyard has a covered patio and play pool. Community offers lush, landscaped greenbelts, playground and is within a convenient Chandler neighborhood near Loop 202 and near major shopping and dining. This home is being sold by the original owners and is a must see!!!!

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15248 S 182nd Lane Goodyear, AZ 85338

$610,000

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,470 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6776986

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

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22723 W Calle De Los Flores Drive Wittmann, AZ 85361

$610,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,194 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6769023

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Experience luxury living in this custom-built Territorial home on a sprawling 1.2-acre lot, offering breathtaking mountain views. This highly upgraded gem boasts elegant maple cabinets, sleek granite countertops, and stylish tile flooring. Inside, the stunning wood vega poles add a touch of rustic charm, while expansive covered patios invite you to enjoy outdoor living at its finest. The home features a formal dining room and a spacious, open kitchen that flows seamlessly into the great room—perfect for entertaining. Retreat to the master suite, complete with a large soaking tub, double sinks, a generous walk-in closet, and split bedroom design for added privacy. With modern amenities like pre-wiring for security, satellite, and ceiling fans, plus an extended 3-car garage with extra storage, this property has everything you need. Best of all, there's no HOA, giving you the freedom to truly make this space your own. The 12x45 covered RV parking offers a fantastic opportunity for extra income during the winter months when the ropers are in town, or it can easily be transformed into horse facilities. This home is the perfect blend of luxury and versatility, designed to fit your lifestyle. Don't miss out on owning this desert oasis!

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13629 W San Miguel Avenue Litchfield Park, AZ 85340

$610,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,408 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6771095

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This stunning 4-bedroom, 2-bath home in Litchfield Park is packed with modern upgrades and features a dream backyard! The family room has custom accents and a Bose surround sound system, connecting seamlessly to the dining area and updated kitchen with granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and new cabinet fronts. The bonus room at the front can be used as a den, study, or formal dining space. Main bathroom custom barn door, an oversized shower, dual sinks, and a walk-in closet. Outside, the backyard oasis is perfect for year-round entertaining, featuring lush landscaping, an great covered patio with pavers, and a custom natural gas fire pit ideal for cool evenings. The Pebble Tec pool, complete with a natural rock waterfall, to complete the serene atmosphere.

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3055 N Red Mountain Unit 122 Mesa, AZ 85207

$610,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,587 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6778173

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Convenience at its best! This 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home is located in a peaceful, gated community. Perfect as a primary residence or investment property, this home is ideally situated just minutes from the 202 freeway, shopping, restaurants, Salt River, and Saguaro Lake. Inside, you'll find beautiful wood tile plank flooring, vaulted ceilings, large windows, and updated lighting throughout. The split primary bedroom includes a walk-in closet and full bath. The pass-through kitchen has white cabinetry, granite countertops, and a stylish tile backsplash. Refrigerator, washer, and dryer convey with the home. The private, low-maintenance backyard includes turf, a large paver patio, a watering system, and a covered patio, all backing up to a secluded lot with a wash behind for extra privacy!

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2501 E Mitchell Drive Phoenix, AZ 85016

$610,000

3 Beds

3 Baths

2,157 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6778953

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

Rare opportunity in Sutton Place, a private gated community brimming with historic charm and home to 47 Mediterranean-inspired townhomes. This north/south-facing end-unit townhome offers 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, and 2,157 square feet of living space. Welcoming you with exceptional curb appeal, the front yard features desert landscaping and decorative tilework. Inside, a spacious main living room invites you with the warmth of oak wood flooring, leading to a formal dining room ideal for entertaining. The updated kitchen includes stainless steel appliances, quartz countertops, tiled backsplash, and custom maple cabinetry that combines both function and modern style. The primary bedroom, located on the main floor for ultimate convenience, offers direct access to the backyard. Upstairs, you'll find a recently remodeled bathroom and a third bedroom with its own private balcony. Enjoy worry-free living with major updates already completed: a new HVAC system (2020), upgraded electrical panel (2021), and a recently recoated roof (2024). Great Phoenix location - just minutes from Biltmore Fashion Park and Arcadia plus nearby freeways providing easy access to Sky Harbor and the rest of the Valley!

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18101 N Key Estrella Drive Surprise, AZ 85374

$610,000

3 Beds

3 Baths

2,200 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6777960

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this delightful residence on a coveted golf course lot! You're greeted by a 2-car garage, a tasteful desert landscape, and a welcoming courtyard. The appealing open layout has high ceilings, an earth-tone palette, plantation shutters, and tile flooring. The gourmet kitchen comes with tile counters with a matching backsplash, wood cabinetry with crown moulding, pendant/recessed lighting, SS appliances, and a two-tier peninsula with a breakfast bar. You'll also find a cozy den ideal for a workspace or lounge. The main bedroom showcases soft carpeting, a sitting nook, an ensuite with double sinks, and a walk-in closet. You'll also find a separate guest house for visiting loved ones. The backyard is complete with a covered patio and serene views of the golf course. Make it yours!

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2925 W Lynx Drive San Tan Valley, AZ 85144

$610,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,357 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6782690

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this beautiful, newer home in the desirable Promenade by Fulton Homes! This spacious 3-bedroom + office features an open floor plan, ideal for modern living. The kitchen is a standout with sleek finishes and ample storage, while the built-in fireplace adds warmth and charm to the living space. Enjoy the convenience of a built-in mudroom area, keeping your home organized. The 4-car tandem garage offers plenty of room for vehicles and storage. With no front yard neighbors, you'll enjoy added privacy. Community amenities include a pool, parks, volleyball, basketball, and pickle ball courts, plus you're close to hiking, shopping, and the new Pecan Lake Entertainment. This home offers the perfect balance of comfort and convenience!

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20750 N 87th Street Unit 2142 Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$610,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,356 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6785238

Property Type Apartment

Price Type --

Prestigious Encore at Grayhawk 2-bedroom, 2-bath with 2 car garage overlooking lush open space with mature trees. Beautiful cul-de-sac location in center of community. Great room floor plan with gas fireplace, open to kitchen with stainless appliances, gas range, granite countertops, spacious pantry and breakfast bar. Master suite has own balcony, large walk-in closet, double sink vanity, garden tub and shower. Private and tranquil on both balconies. Washer, dryer and all appliances included. 2 car garage directly below unit with direct access. Lightly lived in and in excellent condition. Close to community pool, fitness center, clubhouse, Grayhawk Golf Club, Isabella's Restaurant, MoJo's, Quill Creek Restaurant, DC Ranch Market Street, and more. See Floor Plan in Photos.

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