Some people are very successful at selling their home themselves. However, it does require work. When people tell us that they are going to sell themselves because they want to save the commission, the fact is they actually are going to earn the commission they expect to save. But not all of it. Many FSBO (for sale by owners) end up paying the buyer’s agents some commission, usually 3 percent.

One of the biggest problems with an FSBO is the difficulty in showing the home because the owner works. Another complication: it is always better if the owner is not present when a prospective buyer sees the home, but if you’re the agent too, you need to be there, and typically at the buyer’s convenience. Another potential concern is having a perfect stranger knocking on your door wanting to see your home. Real Estate Agents sell most homes, so an FSBO needs to market the home to all the other agents for the best chance of selling it. Even in the hottest of hot markets not all FSBO’s sell, you have to price your home correctly, make it easily available to show, and market it effectively. And don’t get overly emotional or take the negotiations too personally.