How to Sell Your Home Without a Realtor

Thinking of Selling Your Home Without a Realtor? Here's What You Need to Know

Let’s be honest — if you’re thinking about selling your home on your own, you’re not alone.

Every year, homeowners in Birmingham, Tuscaloosa, and everywhere in between ask the same question:

“Do I really need an agent to sell my house — or can I do it myself and save the commission?”

If you’re going the For Sale By Owner (FSBO) route, there are some key things to know upfront — both so you can sell successfully and so you’re not caught off guard down the line.

✅ Step 1: Understand How Buyers Search for Homes

The majority of buyers start their search online — Zillow, Realtor.com, Redfin — but many FSBOs don’t realize they can’t easily post to the MLS (which feeds all of those sites) without an agent.

That means unless you pay a 3rd-party flat-fee service, your home might only be seen by a fraction of buyers.

✅ Step 2: Pricing Is More Than a Zestimate

Zillow's estimate isn’t bad — but it’s not local, and it’s definitely not precise.

If you're not working with an agent, you'll need to:

• Research recent sold comps

• Adjust for upgrades, lot size, and location

• Stay ahead of current market trends in your area

💡 This is where most FSBOs lose the most money — even if they save on commission.

✅ Step 3: Be Ready for Legal & Contract Work

Selling a home = legal transaction. You’ll need to:

• Create a legal contract for purchase

• Disclose all known issues with the home

• Navigate inspections, appraisals, and buyer financing timelines

If you miss something, even unintentionally, it could lead to delays or liability.

✅ Step 4: You’re Responsible for Everything

When you sell without a Realtor, you're the:

• Photographer

• Marketer

• Lead screener

• Negotiator

• Paperwork processor

• Inspector follow-up

• Closing coordinator

It's not impossible — but it is a lot.

So, Can You Sell Without a Realtor?

Yes — but the real question is, should you?

A recent NAR study showed that homes sold with an agent net more on average than those sold FSBO — even after commission.

And a good agent (like me) will:

• Handle everything for you

• Market your home to the widest audience

• Help you avoid costly mistakes

• Negotiate fiercely on your behalf

• Get you to closing with confidence

Curious What Your FSBO Strategy Could Look Like?

If you're still on the fence, let’s talk. No pressure, no pitch — just a quick conversation to walk through your goals and timeline.

📞 Call/text me at 205-394-4898
📅 Or book a quick strategy call