FSBO Fast Start Guide
7 Steps to Sell Your Home Without an Agent
Welcome
Hi there!
If you're reading this, chances are you're thinking about selling your home without hiring a real estate agent—and I want you to know, that’s totally doable. It’s also a big project.
This guide is designed to help you get started on the right foot. Whether you're determined to sell your home FSBO (For Sale by Owner), or you're simply exploring your options, this quick-start guide will give you a clear overview of the process—and a few expert tips to keep you ahead of the game.
Let’s dive in.
Step 1 - Price It Right from Day One
Pricing your home accurately is everything.
Research comparable homes (comps) in your area, consider condition and upgrades, and be honest about your home’s strengths and weaknesses. Overpricing can lead to weeks of silence. Under pricing can leave money on the table.
TOOLS:
Zillow, Redfin, Realtor.com, local county tax records.
Step 2 - Prep the Home Like a Pro
Clean, declutter, and make small repairs. First impressions matter. A fresh coat of paint, clean windows, and bright lighting can make a big difference.
PRO TIPS:
Stage your home to help buyers imagine themselves living there. Put away family photos, cremation urns, litter boxes! Tip: Tuck jewelry and small treasures away in drawers.
Step 3 - Market It Where Buyers Are Looking
Get your home on the major sites: Zillow, Realtor.com, Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and FSBO-specific sites. Add a professional-looking “For Sale” sign in your yard with contact info. Print brochures for potential buyers.
PRO TIP:
Don’t skip photos. Good pictures = more interest. If you can, hire a real estate photographer.
Step 4 - Handle Showings Like a Host
Be flexible and make it easy for buyers to view your home. Use a calendar app, Google Forms, or showing tools to stay organized.
TIP:
Buyers feel more comfortable exploring without the seller present. If you can, step outside, or at least don't stand 3 feet away or follow them into every room.
Step 5- Know How to Negotiate
Get ready for offers—and counteroffers. Be prepared to discuss price, closing dates, contingencie such as inspections, and included items (like appliances or furniture).
REMINDER:
Negotiation isn’t just about price. Terms matter too.
Step 6 - Understand the Legal Stuff
You’ll need a signed purchase agreement, property disclosures, and possibly a lead-based paint disclosure. Some states require attorney involvement—others don’t.
TIP:
It’s smart to have a real estate attorney review your documents, even if you’re handling the sale yourself.
Step 7 - Prep for a Smooth Closing
Once under contract, stay on top of inspections, appraisals, and paperwork. Make sure the buyer’s financing is progressing and confirm timelines with the title or closing company.
TIP:
When everything lines up, you’ll sign the documents, hand over the keys, and celebrate your sale!
CELEBRATE!
Top 5 FSBO Mistakes to Avoid
1. Overpricing your home
2. Using poor-quality photos
3. Not disclosing known issues
4. Being unavailable for showings
5. Underestimating the paperwork
Tools to Make FSBO Easier
· Photos & Design: Canva, Snappr, BoxBrownie
· Scheduling: Calendly, ShowingTime, Google Calendar
· Documents: Rocket Lawyer, Nolo.com, Dotloop
· Marketing: Zillow, FSBO, Facebook, Marketplace, Craigslist
· Legal Help: Google, Real Estate Attorneys
Final Thoughts: You’ve Got This!
Selling a home FSBO can be incredibly rewarding—but it's not without its challenges. If you ever find yourself feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or just need a second opinion, I'm here to help. Whether it’s answering a quick question or stepping in to guide you across the finish line, consider me a friendly, experienced resource—no pressure, just support.
For Sale By Owner Strategy Book coming January 2026
For Sale By Owner Strategy Book coming January 2026
For Sale By Owner Strategy Book coming January 2026
For Sale By Owner Strategy Book coming January 2026
For Sale By Owner Strategy Book coming January 2026
For Sale By Owner Strategy Book coming January 2026
Author Bev Lance
Beverley Lance - Broker Assoc., Dalton Wade LLC
Disclosures:
You have the final choice of Agent/Broker representation. All agreements including compensation is with the Broker you sign with.
Beverley Lance is a Licensed Real Estate Agent and may receive a referal fee from the Brokerage representing you and from affiliate links.
Copyright © 2025 Beverley Lance - All Rights Reserved.
ALL MATERIAL PRESENTED HEREIN IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATION PURPOSES ONLY. WHILE THIS INFORMATION IS BELIEVED TO BE CORRECT, IT IS REPRESENTED SUBJECT TO ERRORS, OMMISSIONS, CHANGES OR WITHDRAWL WITHOUT NOTICE. ALL PROPERTY INFORMATION, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO SQUARE FOOTAGE, ROOM COUNT, NUMBER OF BEDROOMS, ZONING LAWS, SCHOOL DISTRICT IN PROPERTY LISTINGS SHOULD BE VERIFIED BY YOUR OWN ATTORNEY, ARCHITECT OR ZONING EXPERT. IF YOUR PROPERTY IS CURRENTLY LISTED WITH ANOTHER REAL ESTATE BROKER, PLEASE DISREGARD THIS OFFER. IT IS NOT OUR INTENTION TO SOLICIT THE OFFERINGS OF OTHER REAL ESTATE BROKERS. WE COOPERATE WITH THEM FULLY. EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY. 🟰
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