Selling your home “For Sale By Owner” (FSBO) offers a chance to save on commissions, but it can be a challenging journey without proper preparation. At Get Real Realty, we understand the hurdles FSBO sellers encounter, and our Basic Package provides robust tools and support to help you sidestep these pitfalls. For those seeking added assurance, our Pro and Ultimate Packages include Seller Agency to address risks comprehensively. Drawing from industry observations in 2024-2025, including data from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) and real estate insights, here are the five most common mistakes FSBO sellers make—along with practical ways to avoid them.
1. Mispricing Your Home
Mistake: Many FSBO sellers overprice due to emotional attachment or underprice from limited market insight, which can prolong market time or reduce profits. NAR’s 2024 data suggests FSBO homes sold for a median of $55,000 less than agent-assisted sales ($310,000 vs. $365,000).
How to Avoid: Leverage the Comparable Sales Analysis (CSA) in our Basic Package to analyze recent nearby sales and market trends. Follow the pricing techniques and process outlined in the free eBook provided with your listing. The data from Get Real empowers you to set a competitive price within your local market—under $500,000 for Basic eligibility—and adjust based on showing feedback. If you’re uncertain, upgrade to Pro or Ultimate for Agent guidance from start to finish.
Note: The NAR figure reflects median sale prices, not median comparable sale prices, and their FSBO data stems from self-reported homeowner surveys, which may be incomplete. This could reflect a narrative favoring the traditional commission model—consider the source as you interpret it.
2. Skimping on Marketing and Exposure
Mistake: Without MLS access or quality photos, FSBOs miss 80-90% of potential buyers, often leading to stagnant listings.
How to Avoid: Take advantage of the Basic Package’s MLS entry and syndication to high-traffic platforms like Zillow and Realtor.com. Upload clear, appealing photos to the Get Real portal, and let us manage your MLS access for maximum visibility. Position your 18″ x 24″ corrugated plastic yard sign in a prominent spot to attract local interest.
3. Botching Legal Paperwork and Disclosures
Mistake: Mishandling contracts, disclosures, or fees (e.g., prorations, transfer taxes) can invite legal disputes or fines. Critics highlight FSBOs’ tendency to overlook these, raising liability risks.
How to Avoid: Rely on the Basic Package’s checklists and eBook to navigate disclosures and contract essentials. When you list with Get Real, we require your Property Disclosure at engagement, along with other necessary documents, ensuring no critical steps are missed. Partner with the closing agent we recommend for your property to handle title work and prorations accurately. Submit offers via getrealsold.com’s smart contract tool, designed for Realtor-approved forms for legal compliance. For extra reassurance, upgrade to Pro or Ultimate, where an Agent oversees every step.
4. Struggling with Negotiations
Mistake: Emotional involvement can lead to accepting low offers or engaging with unqualified buyers, often at a financial cost. FSBOs may lack the skills to negotiate effectively.
How to Avoid: Compel prospects to upload lender letter and state issued ID to the Get Real portal and schedule the showings from the portal. The portal will send them a feedback follow up email. This aids with buyer screening and follow-up, just some of the eTools Get Real offers. Build confidence using the negotiation tips in the Basic Package’s eBook and practice self advocacy. If pricing homework is solid—based on your CSA and market data—you can confidently counter or reject low-ball offers. Investors or even some owner-occupants may push for bargains, but standing firm is fine if your price aligns with the market. If negotiations feel overwhelming, consider upgrading to Pro or Ultimate for expert support.
5. Underestimating Time and Stress
Mistake: Treating FSBO as a casual task can lead to burnout or hasty decisions. Over 50% of FSBO sellers found it stressful, with 47% reporting emotional strain.
How to Avoid: Plan ahead with the Basic Package’s detailed checklists to stay organized. Set aside time for showings and follow-ups, and consider self-guided showings with a lockbox and Wi-Fi cameras to monitor remotely. The truth is, selling a home demands time regardless of an agent—preparation and availability are non-negotiable. However, scheduling appraisals, inspections, contractors, and closing agents can be time-intensive. If your schedule is tight, upgrading to Pro or Ultimate shifts that burden to your Agent.
Why These Mistakes Matter
FSBO sales dipped to 6% in 2024, with 89% eventually relisting with agents, according to NAR. Critics, including agents, suggest FSBOs face risks of lower prices, legal hiccups, and burnout due to the absence of professional expertise. Yet, with the right tools and approach, success is achievable. Get Real Realty’s packages bridge the gap—offering DIY empowerment with Basic ($599), guided support with Pro, or a premium, agent-led experience with Ultimate ($3,999, $1,999 deposit), featuring a 24″ x 36″ aluminum yard sign and vendor coordination.
Take Control with Get Real
As a confident, capable seller, you can dodge these pitfalls. If you’re ready to tackle the process with the MLS management, support and eTools Get Real publishes, start with the Basic Package. If the idea of selling feels daunting or stress is already mounting, opt for the Pro plan for added guidance. For a professional valuation, staging advice, premium photography, and a standout yard sign, the Ultimate package is your best bet. Visit getrealsold.com or join our getrealhome.com community to explore— we’re here to support your journey!
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