Select Realty
250 Wharncliffe Road North
London, ON  N6H 2B8
Canada
 

Ann Smith
Broker


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Phone: 519-433-4331
Toll Free:
1-866-851-1534
Fax: 519-433-6894Email: ansmith@sympatico.ca

 


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Know the Risks of Selling Your Home Yourself

By Ann Smith

Whether buying or selling, many people are tempted to “save money” and bypass the expertise of using a qualified real estate agent.  They believe that the commission saved outweighs the risks of going it alone.  After all, how hard can it be to close a sale?

 

Interestingly enough, most homeowners who try to sell their home alone net less money than if they had have used an agent – and statistics show that the majority eventually opt to list their home, but by that time it may be too late to get its full value.

 

Here are some things to think about before you put your own sign on your front lawn:

 

·         Do you understand the current market trends?

·         Do you really know what the home is worth and what it should be listed for?

·         Are you prepared to “market” your home through weekly advertisements, open houses, etc.?

·         Can you negotiate effectively – face to face?

·         Do you know what you are required to disclose about your property and other legal issues?

·         Do you know how to prequalify a potential buyer?

·         Are you ready to stay with it for the long haul?

 

Selling your home yourself limits its exposure no matter how much you advertise.  You don’t have the benefit of the Multiple Listing System® (MLS®) to attract agents and buyers across the country.

 

If you decide to go it alone, do your homework.  Get a professional home appraisal and research similar house prices that have sold in your area recently.  Find a good real estate lawyer to protect your interests. Create a marketing plan and stick to it. And finally, be prepared to work.

 

Understand the risks involved to make the best decision for you and your family.

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