How to Negotiate on a Home For Sale By Owner
When a home is listed for sale by owner (FSBO), it simply means that the homeowner is selling his or her home without the help of a listing agent. Before you consider buying a home that is listed as for sale by owner, there are some things that you should consider first.
Buying a Home For Sale By Owner vs. a Traditional Sale
A direct line of communication.
When it comes to homes for sale by owner, one of the biggest benefits is a direct and open line of communication. If you have questions or want to discuss something with the homeowner, a FSBO sale allows you to reach out to the homeowner directly to ask your questions.
In a traditional sale, you often have to communicate your questions to your real estate agent, who then relays the message to the listing agent, who then talks to the homeowner. And the whole process reverses to get information back to you. A FSBO transaction allows you to reach out to the homeowner whenever you have a question or need, eliminating the middleman.
Detailed information about the home.
When it comes to details and information on the home for sale, no one knows better than the homeowner. A FSBO sale can afford you the opportunity to get to know more about the home than you may find out in a traditional sale. Talking directly with the homeowner can also give you insights on the neighborhood, local restaurants, schools, and more.
Disadvantages of Buying a Home For Sale By Owner
There are also some drawbacks when it comes to shopping for a home for sale by owner.
An inflated sense of value.
The homeowner invariably loves their home, having made many memories within its walls. As a result, it is common for FSBO sellers to have an inflated sense of the home’s value. Many sellers have a hard time separating their emotions from the transaction, which can lead to a higher listing price. This can cause challenges when you are having the home appraised and can also mean that you end up paying more than you should.
Difficulty getting repairs covered.
Many sellers go the FSBO-route in order to save money, so it can sometimes be difficult to convince them to go to the expense of covering repairs—even if they’re necessary. This can make negotiations on surplus costs, like repairs and updates, a challenge.
How to Buy a Home For Sale By Owner
If you’re considering purchasing a FSBO home, there are steps that you can take in order to make the transaction as smooth as possible.
Step 1: Get preapproved for your mortgage.
The first step you should take when considering a FSBO home is to get preapproved for your mortgage. This not only signals to the seller that you’re a serious buyer, but it also gives you a solid idea of what you can afford to pay.
Step 2: Consider working with a real estate agent of your own.
Even though the seller has decided to go without the help of a real estate agent, you have the option to work with a professional who can act on your behalf, handling negotiations and helping you navigate the transaction. It is the seller who typically pays all of the agents involved, so working with a buyer’s agent can have tremendous reward—with very little downside.
Step 3: Take a closer look at the home.
Now that you’ve found a home that catches your eye, it’s time to really get to know it. Contact the seller to set up a time to tour the home, and if they’ll be present, think of any questions that you’d like answered.
Step 4: Make an offer.
Talk with your agent to get an idea of comparable sales in the area and come up with an offer that you’re comfortable with. A real estate agent will help you determine if you should make an offer that is above, at, or below listing price. And be prepared for a round or two of negotiations. Don’t get discouraged—you’re almost there!
Step 5: Close on the home.
Once all of the necessary inspections are done and you’ve agreed on a price with the seller, it’s time to close. During the closing, ownership of the home will transfer from the seller to the buyer. At the closing, you will also pay your down payment and any closing costs.
Important Things to Keep in Mind
Most sellers list their FSBO home because they believe it’s more cost-effective. As a buyer, it’s important to remember that buying a FSBO home won’t necessarily save you money. While the seller won’t have to pay commission to a listing agent, it can mean some additional complications or headaches for you.
As with any home, you should never purchase a FSBO home without a thorough and professional inspection. The inspector will closely examine all of the home’s major systems, as well as the structure and surroundings. The inspection report should give you a clear understanding of any repairs that are necessary on the home.
If you’re considering purchasing a FSBO home, it is up to you, as the buyer, to carefully inspect the property, have a solid idea of its value, and make a fair and compelling offer. Working with a seasoned real estate professional can help you avoid errors—often saving you both time and money in the process.
Thinking about buying a home for sale by owner? Check out our mortgage payment calculator to see what you can expect to pay and find a top local real estate agent to help you in your search.
