That’s a tough question and one we often get asked. Ideally, the answer should come easily to a person who is selling their home however the temptation to try to do it alone and save the real estate commissions brings up many questions.
To help with this issue, we often suggest to our clients that they truly evaluate their needs, their goals and their current situation because to sell on their own or with the help of a realtor can lead to two very different outcomes.
According to Irene Bilinski, ASA, of Keller Williams Ottawa Realty, there are four very important things to consider prior to making the decision to sell your home on your own or with the help of a realtor:
- Do you have the negotiation skills to keep a deal on track? When an offer comes in, emotions can run high with so much money on the line. This is why direct seller-to-buyer deals often end in disaster. Real Estate Agents keep it professional and are indispensable when it comes to bargaining with buyers. We are not emotionally attached to the property.
- Do you know the market well enough to get the most for your home? Lacking years of experience, the average do-it-yourselfer is merely guessing at their listing price. Often they set the price too low and miss out on thousands of dollars, or they price their home too high and drive away willing buyers.
- Do you have the time? Promoting a home is a full time job, and you may already have one. Will you be able to take calls at any time? How about screening the callers and ensuring that they can afford to purchase your home? Will you let pure strangers into your home without knowing their motivation?
- How many potential buyers will know your home is for sale? Selling a home takes more than sticking a sign in front of your home. What are you marketing skills? Do you know where to advertise your property?
Before you make a decision to sell your home on your own, be sure to ask yourself the above questions. It could mean the difference between meeting your goals and objectives or falling flat below the sale line.
Irene Bilinski and her Team are dedicated to making every real estate transaction about you. Your needs and wants must be met and you must walk-away with a feeling that it was a great experience whether you were selling or buying or both. Our job is to ensure that you have all the information required to make an educated decision about your real estate investment. Yes, your home is an investment. Irene Bilinski and her Team are your solution to real estate. Contact Irene and it will be her pleasure to speak with you. www.irenebilinski.com