As the real estate industry evolves it seemingly becomes easier to market your house without the use of a professional.  Knowing whether to use a REALTOR® or sell privately (FSBO) can be difficult to determine. It is important to understand what I as your agent can bring to the table.  Some of the main advantages of using a professional include: emotional objectivity, knowledge and marketing reach.
 

Before you decide to take on the job of selling your property in Fredericksburg privately,  ask yourself a few key questions:
 

      Sellers generally become attached to their property. Most consider their home a sanctuary where they create an environment of relaxation and exhibit their own style. It is difficult to let go of something that has become a part of you over the years.
 

      Additionally, it can be difficult to maintain objectivity as buyers critique your home. Somethings you find endearing, that make it so special to you, may be the opposite for a buyer. It is important to listen to buyer criticisms and to be open to suggestions for improvement. A REALTOR® (me!) will serve as an emotional bridge helping you maintain an air of calm during the selling experience.
 

      The first step is determining a listing price. Some sellers have an unrealistic idea of the price their property may sell. Whether your idea is low or high, I will play a crucial role in helping come to a sensible price range. After completing a comparative market analysis (CMA) and examining other data, I will offer a respectful suggestion as to the price range you’ll be able to obtain. Once the listing price has been settled the marketing of your property begins.
 

      The initial marketing of your property is the most important aspect of the selling process.  Once I have viewed your house, I will write ads focused on the key elements of your house that make it saleable. These ads may be placed in newspapers, magazines, on websites and the local MLS and are crucial to successfully selling your house. Focus may be on the uniquely large size of secondary bedrooms, the proximity of your home to parks and schools or significantly lower taxes. Even if you’re able to detach yourself from your house and market it appropriately, will you be able to tackle problems presented during escrow?
 

      My goal as your agent is to anticipate and avoid problems or respond to difficult situations quickly. I have handled countless transactions and run into near-deal-breakers throughout my career. The ability to quickly handle problems during escrow can be the difference between a closed deal and one that falls through. Real property vs. personal property can present issues during the closing process. For example, if you are selling your home FSBO and do not stipulate your expensive, antique chandelier will be moving with you, you could run into trouble. The various disclosures mandated by local, state and federal laws can be critical.
 

      Most often FSBO homes do not offer access to their home via a lockbox. This cripples the ability for other Fredericksburg agents (clients in-tow) to show your home to potential buyers while you are at work. Further, buyers generally feel intimidated by the presence of the seller during their visit. They rush through the house and tell you how wonderful it is even if they hate it. They feel uncomfortable looking through every nook and cranny even though this is one of the most important avenues a buyer must travel to make the decision to purchase your property. Hence, your presence hinders the sale of your house.

 

These are but a few of the issues sellers can run into during the selling process. Depending on your personal situation, knowledge and availability, it is often in your best interest to enlist my help and expertise as a professional real estate agent.