As the Cheshire real estate market heads into the best season we've had in years, it temps some home sellers to try and market their properties themselves. Here are a few reminders why "For Sale By Owner" properties do not have the same advantages as broker-listed homes, whether you are a buyer or a seller!
1. Ongoing marketing. Your local real estate broker continually advertises themselves and their listings, while sharing sales activity and resources. This draws buyers!
2 Trust. Professional REALTORS adhere to a Code of Ethics and a uniform standard of practices that protect the consumer.
3. The Multiple Listing Service. Homes for sale that are listed on the MLS appear in local circulation, and on the largest real estate websites in the world.
4. Home sales statistics and market trends. While very generalized information is publicly available, your local broker can give you up-to-the-minute information that zeros in on your immediate market area.
5. Accurate comparative market values. Automated, online valuations are estimates that pull data "sight unseen" - meaning a home could be extremely under-valued, or over-valued, as condition and amenities are not taken into consideration.
6. Lack of transparency. If you are a home buyer, a FSBO won't tell you how long they have attempted to sell the home, or how many price reductions may have already happened.
7. Professional negotiation. Real estate professionals are trained negotiators. Our objective is to help you make a deal happen that fits your needs and serves your best interests.
8. Preparing buyers. We help home buyers access mortgages, home inspectors, contractors, and equip them to be "ready to buy." Home sellers going it alone will have to do their own screening of prospective home buyers, while staying in bounds of Fair Housing laws.
Home buyers also tend to question the motives of FSBO sellers. Is the seller avoiding the use of a professional in order to save sales commission? If so, what kind of negotiation experience does that suggest? Is the seller avoiding a real estate professional because they want to price the home above market levels? Why wouldn't a home seller want the advantages of professional representation, multi-faceted marketing, and distribution among popular websites?
These are just a few reasons why the vast majority of Cheshire homes are bought and sold through real estate professionals. Having an experienced real estate team on your side is important whether you are a buyer or a seller!
When you need Cheshire real estate information, turn to Sallly Bowman Real Estate! We will tell you what's happening with home prices in your neighborhood, and provide you with the professional guidance you need for success! Call us today - we are ready to help you!
