Do you really need a Realtor? That is the first question that comes to mind when you want to put your house on the market. FSBO (fiz-bo), For Sale By Owner versus Agent represented properties create two entirely different processes with a common goal; get the home sold.

Let’s begin with FSBO. The most obvious benefit of FSBO is that it cuts out the middleman. Without a middleman the seller has a lot more control, but that also comes with a lot more responsibility. FSBO sellers are solely responsible for everything. The paperwork, showings, advertising, marketing materials, negotiations and more are the responsibility of the seller.

A Realtor's day-to-day activities are focused solely around getting your home sold not to mention, are fully aware of all regulations, laws, contracts and practices. With an agent, you can be rest assured that you did not miss any pertinent dates and deadlines throughout the transaction that could put you at risk for default.

What are the benefits of using an agent? To begin, note this: According to the National Association of REALTORS® 2012 Survey of Home Buyers and Sellers, 88% of sellers used a realtor to list their home and 89% of buyers used a realtor to purchase a home.

They Know the Industry

Realtors sell homes for a living. They know the process inside and out. When working with a seasoned realtor, you can trust that your home sale will go as smoothly as possible. With the ever-changing Real Estate laws, selling a home privately can be an educational hassle. Realtor.com says, “Realtors® are immersed in real estate, and they must stay current with all the updates in regulations, laws, contracts and practices when retaining and maintaining your Realtor® association membership, they put that knowledge to work for you.”

 

They Understand the Costs Associated

Realtors understand the costs associated with listing (and buying) a home. The typical FSBO seller is not versed in tax adjustments; land survey certificates, legal fees to review the offer, disbursement, mortgage preparations, insurance, etc. In addition to understanding the costs, a realtor will be able to assist in the proper handling of deposit checks. These checks must be handled safely and securely and must be in a Trust Account, which is followed up by the Department of Real Estate. With FSBO, these deposit checks usually end up at the purchaser’s lawyer where you have no control.

They can Accurately Price Your Home

The most important factor to getting a home sold is accurate pricing. Realtors live and breathe real estate. They know the in’s and out’s of the housing market and can price your home in relation to the current and accurate market conditions. This will improve the overall sale of the home.

 

You Can Be Certain of Safe Showings

After the home is accurately priced and listed, showings will begin. Realtors can assure that your showings will be handled safely. Your Realtor will ensure that a licensed Realtor accompanies pre-qualified customers who are truly in the market. A Realtor attends showings and will either have his/her picture on business cards or ID cards from the PA Real Estate Board. FSBO sellers run the risk of crime, assault, robbery, etc., because they do not really know who may be walking through the house. 

They Can Put More Money in Your Pocket

The ultimate goal is to make the most money off of your home sale as possible. Working with a realtor is statistically proven to net a higher value than FSBO, which means more in your pocket even after paying commission. In general, FSBO sellers net 3 to 9 ½% less statistically. To put it into perspective, 3% of a $300,000 home is $9,000; $9,000 that you could be yours if you use a realtor. That extra 9 grand would come in handy when relocating, wouldn't it

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When you are ready to list your home, we can help. You will need a team of agents who will prospect daily for potential buyers, advertise your home effectively, show to prospective buyers, negotiate the purchase contract, approve financing, handle all of the marketing from listing to contract and all of the administrative paperwork from contract to close.

The Benjamin Hardy Real Estate Group is your Real Estate Team. Our objective is to sell your home with the least amount of hassle at the highest price possible. By pricing your home accurately, we will position your home to sell dictated by the market. Your home will receive maximum exposure with our extensive marketing plan, including showcasing it to our own database of potential buyers.

610.784.3213 | www.hardyrealestategroup.com |info@hardyrealestategroup.com