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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1449 W Islandia Drive Gilbert, AZ 85233

$609,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,846 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6768896

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Move-in ready! Fantastic opportunity to own this wonderful 3-bed, 2-bath home with a sparkling pool! Great curb appeal with nice desert landscaping, a covered front porch, and a 3-car garage. The welcoming interior offers a spacious living & family room, soaring vaulted ceilings, soothing palette, ceiling fans, soft carpeting, archways, a wood-burning fireplace, and beautiful laminate flooring. The kitchen is fully equipped with sleek granite counters, a mosaic tile backsplash, track lighting, lots of white cabinetry with crown molding, and two windows with great views of the backyard. Don't forget about the large dining area with a bay window perfect for entertaining family & friends. The main bedroom offers an ensuite bathroom with a separate tub & shower, dual vanities, and a walk-in closet. The remaining bedrooms are an ample size and share the hall bathroom. Laundry inside with utility sink. Enjoy the outdoors with a large covered concrete patio, artificial turf, additional desert landscaping and a refreshing pool. Make this gem yours today! The exterior of the home was painted in 2023.

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32828 N 228th Drive Wittmann, AZ 85361

$609,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

1,403 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6757577

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Set on a full acre, this 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom home is a striking combination of modern updates and rural charm. With a 2023 refresh that includes new flooring and updates to the kitchen and bathrooms, the interior feels fresh, cool, and contemporary. The open floor plan flows effortlessly, creating a spacious and inviting atmosphere that's perfect for both entertaining and everyday living. The property is ideal for those with hobbies or larger projects, featuring a massive 30' x 50' x 14' detached, insulated shop, fully equipped with electrical and offering 10' x 10' and 10' x 12' doors, providing ample room for up to six vehicles or larger equipment. The 10' x 16' wood shed with a window AC unit adds additional functional space, perfect for storage or a small workshop. Backing up to... state trust land, this property offers expansive views and exceptional privacy. For pet owners, the fenced dog yard includes a dig-proof kennel, giving peace of mind and security for your pets. This home perfectly blends modern conveniences with the freedom and space of rural living, offering a lifestyle that's as practical as it is peaceful.

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7632 E Bonita Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85250

$609,000

3 Beds

3 Baths

2,026 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6763467

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

*AMAZING Villa Monterey Home *Three Bedrooms, three bathrooms, over 2000 square feet of space *COVETED DOUBLE CARPORT! *Low HOA fee of just $650 annually! *Scottsdale Historic District *Age 55+ Community *REMODELED KITCHEN with maple cabinets, GRANITE countertops, granite backsplash, NEWER APPLIANCES *Main level features spacious living room, in-ceiling lighting, formal dining space, breakfast nook, laundry utility room, primary bedroom & full bath, additional bedroom and hall bath *Upper level features loft style bedroom, full bathroom, balcony with mountain views, walk-in closet and BONUS SPACE (can be used as office, hobby area, pet area) *Wood laminate flooring *CONVENIENT door from living room to primary bedroom suite * *Large laundry room with extra storage and side-by-side washer dryer which conveys! *Pretty PANED WINDOWS on back of home *Super nice north facing covered patio mature citrus tree, PAVERS and two fans *Home is in great condition and has been VERY WELL MAINTAINED by owners of many years *Sparkling community pool & spa *Minutes to Fashion Square Mall, Scottsdale's Waterfront, Old Town Scottsdale, Fifth Avenue Shops & Galleries, Spring Training Venues, fine and casual dining venues and SO MUCH MORE!

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2449 E Inglewood Street Mesa, AZ 85213

$609,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,038 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6767409

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Fully professionally/beautifully updated 3 bed/2 bath in one of the cutest neighborhoods in Mesa. No HOA!! Huge 10,633 sqft private lot with substantial RV parking/gate, swimming pool, covered patio and cozy outdoor settings to relax in the evenings. Attention to detail on the design in the home will make anyone feel like they are on vacation. Open concept floorplan, spacious master bedroom with en-suite bath and much more. All new flooring/lighting/quartz counters/custom backsplash, stainless appliances/custom 5'' baseboards/new paint inside and out. Minutes to the 202 with great entertainment and shopping nearby. Close to Mesa and PHX airports. This one is a must see!

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1609 E Montecito Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85016

Open House

$609,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,362 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6759860

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This stunning property is nestled in the desirable Biltmore/Camelback corridor and is surrounded by an array of shopping options, and some of the city's finest restaurants. This beautifully designed two-story residence features three spacious bedrooms and two bathrooms, providing ample space for relaxation and privacy. The master bedroom is conveniently located on the first floor. The property boasts modern finishes and an open floor plan that enhances its inviting atmosphere, with a stylish kitchen, bright living spaces, and a lovely outdoor space, perfect for family gatherings or the addition of a pool. Large laundry with ample storage. Two car carport with a Tesla charging station. Easy access to highways and public transpiration. Do not miss this one!

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35508 N Tin Court San Tan Valley, AZ 85144

$608,995

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,433 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6784991

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

*Home is still Under Construction* This beautiful home was crafted for the way you live. The foyer welcomes you with stunning views of the main living space and rear yard. The open-concept kitchen provides connectivity to the great room area with prime access to the outdoor patio. The backyard retreat is perfect for activities, complete with a stacking door system. The resort-style amenities in this community will make your family feel they're on vacation year-round. Come experience your dream home today!

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1204 W Fever Tree Avenue San Tan Valley, AZ 85140

$608,900

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,716 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6727454

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

New incentive- With purchase price of $620K, sellers will pay off the solar lease! Giving buyers 10 yrs of ultra low utility billls! Sellers had $0 utility bills in summer!! Fall/spring were approx $20, winter btwn $20-$50. Come see this beautiful, highly upgraded 4 bed+ office, 2.5 bath, 3 car garage . Gourmet kitchen includes granite counters, oversized island, stainless appliances, gas cooktop, convection oven, & huge walk-in pantry. Primary bedroom features dual vanities, soaking tub, large shower & walk-in closet. Split floor plan with large secondary rooms and walk-in closets. Extra cabinets in laundry & garage. Grass, extended paved patio, and garden beds. Enjoy 2 community pools, splash pads, club house, playgrounds, pickle ball, basketball, sand volleyball, & frisbee golf course

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7816 E Quartet Avenue Mesa, AZ 85212

$608,633

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,132 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6787457

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

MLS#6787457 February Completion! The Sapphire is a thoughtfully designed single-story home featuring 1,970 sq. ft. of living space with 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, and a 2-car garage. The foyer leads directly to an open dining area, kitchen, and great room, seamlessly connecting to the outdoor living space—perfect for entertaining. Whether you're cooking your favorite meals in the kitchen, relaxing in the great room with a book and coffee, or hosting friends and family, this home is made for creating lasting memories. The spacious primary suite offers a private retreat with a bathroom featuring double sinks and a walk-in closet. Welcome home! Structural options include: bedroom in place of tandem garage, study with doors in place of bedroom.

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10044 E Tiburon Avenue Mesa, AZ 85212

$608,500

5 Beds

3 Baths

2,547 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6751296

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

TURN KEY READY!! Nearly-new 5-bedroom, 3-bath home in Mesa's Cadence at Gateway community. Fully Furnished! Built in 2022 by Tri Pointe Homes and stayed in just a handful of times! This spacious residence features a gourmet kitchen with stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, and a large island. Bright, open living areas flow seamlessly into a backyard oasis with custom BBQ and designer turf. The primary suite offers a spa-like bath with dual vanities, and walk-in shower. One of the biggest selling points is access to resort-style amenities, including one of the best community pools in the state, many parks, and trails.

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960 E Mulberry Place -- Chandler, AZ 85286

$607,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,324 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6638691

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Charming 3 bedroom and 2 bath home in new Chandler community. Hamilton Landing includes 36 single level homes each with their own front porch, private driveway for 2 vehicles and a single car garage and a small, pet friendly rear yard. Each home has 10' flat ceilings, white cabinets, luxury vinyl plank flooring in every room, two tone paint, beautiful wood trim around windows and doors and granite/quartz countertops in the kitchen and baths. The community includes a dog park with a covered ramada. These homes will be ready for occupancy between March and June of 2024. All photos are of a similar home completed in a previous community.

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20911 S 231st Street Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$606,490

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,524 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6776293

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Brand new phase!. Our beautiful Revolution plan features it's own guest suite and is conveniently located to all that Queen Creek has to offer. Minutes from the brand new Costco, Schnepf Farms, Queen Creek Market Place and the Queen Creek Olive Mill. A public report is available on the Arizona Department of Real Estate website.

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4832 W Stargazer Place Laveen, AZ 85339

$605,995

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,024 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6683740

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

The single-story Dominic plan offers an open, inviting layout and ample living space. At the heart of the home is a spacious great room that flows into an impressive gourmet kitchen with a center island, quartz counter tops, dual pantries and a generous breakfast nook. A luxurious primary suite showcases an immense walk-in closet and a private bath with Deluxe walk-in shower, a covered patio invites relaxation, a study and a teen room, and a third side turn garage bay.

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