Selling your home is a big decision, and you may be wondering whether to go it alone with “for sale by owner” (FSBO) or enlist professional help. While FSBO can save you money upfront, it comes with challenges that might make you think twice. Alternatively, Flat Five Realty offers a flat $5000 listing fee that combines most of the savings of FSBO with the benefits of expert support. Let’s break it down.

“For sale by owner” (FSBO) is when you, the homeowner, sell your property without hiring a traditional real estate agent. You take on all the responsibilities typically handled by an agent, such as pricing the home, marketing it, showing it to buyers, negotiating offers, and managing the paperwork.

1. Price Your Home: Research comparable homes in your area to set a competitive price. Overpricing can scare off buyers, while underpricing might cost you money.
2. Market Your Property: Take high-quality photos, write a compelling description, and list your home online (e.g., on social media or FSBO websites). You will need to pay extra for MLS access.
3. Host Showings: Schedule and conduct open houses or private showings for potential buyers.
4. Negotiate Offers: Review buyer offers, negotiate terms, and accept the best one.
5. Handle Paperwork: Prepare and complete legal documents, such as the purchase agreement, with the help of a real estate attorney if needed.
6. Close the Sale: Work with a title company or attorney to finalize the transaction and transfer ownership.

• Did you know that the Colorado “Recommended Transaction File” contains a list of 30+ Documents?
  • Unless you feel confident in drafting these documents, it may be in your best interest to hire a pro.

• Save on Commissions: Traditional agents often charge around 3% of the sale price to list the home. For a $500,000 home, that’s $15,000. Keep in mind that a buyer’s agent will typically also ask to be compensated, and this is true regardless of whether you list with an agent or sale FSBO.
• Full Control: You decide the price, marketing strategy, and how to negotiate, giving you complete authority over the process.

Most buyers, prior to viewing properties, will sign a contract called an “Exclusive right to buy listing contract.” This means that the buyer is most likely OBLIGATED to compensate their agent an agreed upon fee at closing. Often this fee will be around 3% of the purchase price, but this figure is negotiable.

The reality is that the vast majority of buyers are unable to pay this fee on top of all the other items they have to pay for in a real estate transaction. The result is that the seller typically pays a BAC or “buyers agent compensation”. Being unwilling to pay a BAC will severely limit the number of eligible buyers who may be interested in purchasing your home.

This means by going FSBO, you will be directly negotiating against a professional and probably paying for the privilege of doing so.

• Time and Effort: Selling a home yourself is a big commitment. You’ll need to manage every detail, from marketing to legal paperwork.
• Limited Exposure: Without a Multiple Listing Service (MLS) listing, your home may not reach as many buyers, potentially lengthening the sale time.
• Lack of Expertise: Pricing incorrectly, negotiating poorly, or mishandling paperwork can lead to costly mistakes.
• Stress: Juggling the sale process alone can be overwhelming, especially if you’re unfamiliar with real estate.

If FSBO sounds like too much work, Flat Five Realty offers an affordable alternative. For a flat fee of $5000, you get professional support and maximum exposure without the high commissions of traditional agents. Here’s why it’s a smarter option:

Benefits of Using Flat Five Realty

• MLS and Online Exposure: Your home is listed on the MLS and major real estate websites like Zillow, Realtor.com, and Trulia, reaching a vast pool of buyers for a faster sale.
• Expert Guidance: Flat Five Realty helps with pricing, marketing, and negotiations, reducing your workload and the risk of errors.
• Huge Savings: Compare the costs:
  • Traditional agent: 6% commission on a $500,000 home = $30,000.
  • Flat Five Realty: Flat $5000 listing fee + Buyers agent commission = $10,000+ in savings.

Feature	FSBO	Flat Five Realty
Cost	No Listing Commission, but probably still buyers agent commission.	Flat $5000 fee + buyer’s agent commission.
Exposure	Limited unless you pay for the MLS	Full MLS and online platform exposure
Time	High – You do it all.	Lower – pros handle key tasks
Support	None – you’re on your own	Expert help with pricing and negotiations
Risks	Higher due to inexperience	Lower with professional guidance

While FSBO can save you money, it demands significant time, effort, and know-how. Mistakes could lead to a lower sale price or legal issues. Flat Five Realty bridges the gap:

• Get More Buyers: MLS exposure increases your chances of a quick, competitive sale.
• Save Time and Stress: Professionals handle the heavy lifting, so you don’t have to.
• Maximize Your Profit: Expert pricing and negotiation support can help you get the best deal—all for a flat $5000 fee.

Selling “for sale by owner” might appeal to the DIY enthusiast, but it’s not always the easiest or most profitable route. Flat Five Realty’s flat $5000 listing fee offers the perfect blend of savings and support. You’ll save thousands compared to traditional agents, enjoy professional help, and get your home in front of more buyers.

Ready to sell your home the smart way? Contact Flat Five Realty today to learn how we can help you succeed!