For Sale by Owner or FSBO is when a home owner attempts to sell the home without the use of a real estate agent. Due to declining property values, many homeowners are choosing to sell their own home in an attempt to recoup some equity or perhaps break even and avoid a short sale situation. Some homeowners have successfully sold their home; however, in this market with home inventory at an all-time high it is crucial for the owner to catch up with “showing skills at homeHere are some tips to consider and possibly apply to your display technique:

The stalker homeowner: Do not follow potential buyers to each room and stay there. The key is to point them in the direction then let them watch. Standing in front of a shopper makes them uncomfortable and makes them want to rush on their way. Give a short guided tour and point out anything you can easily being overlooked. Then tell them to feel free to open the doors and cabinets and you’ll be on the patio if they have any questions.

the endless talker: Stop talking! Disclosure is necessary, but potential buyers don’t need excessive explanation of every room and every decision you’ve made. If your appliances are over 8 years old, there’s really no need to point out the fact that they may be a “brand name“. They are only old to a buyer. To draw attention to the name is only to draw attention to its age. If your kitchen and fixtures throughout the house are more than 10 years old…your house is dated. Like it or not, your home will need updates from most prospective buyers. Although you may be proud of the bronze chandelier that hangs over your entry, many buyers will figure out the costs to replace it.

the gossipy tail: It is not necessary to indicate the potential honey do list you haven’t had a chance to do. Once, I showed a FSBO house and the owner had hardwood floors. Rather than just pointing out hardwood, he went into detail about how they can be restored. Then the buyers realized that the floors really needed finishing and that was more work do. if not a divulgation situation, then do not point out what is so time consuming that you he didn’t even address it before selling it. If the buyer commented on the floor, this would be the opportunity to explain a possible solution.

Know your THINGS. Know the averages of your energy bill. Know your neighborhood and services; know where the parks and schools are (You may not have children, but a potential buyer might). Learn the basics of building your home (year, energy characteristics, type of foundation, and location/type of furnace). Know your property lines (if they are not clearly defined or if they extend beyond what appears to be the end).

Eliminate Sentimental Feelings from You and Your House. Buyers don’t care that you paid a lot of money paint the dining room green… chances are they don’t like it and plan to repaint it. If you go on in detail about your decisions about what you have done to the house (or the garden you worked so hard to plant in the side yard) buyers feel guilty because they may have plans to turn their hard work into an RV driveway. Point out unique features that may go unnoticed, then retreat to the front yard. Wait for them to ask questions and give them a SIMPLE answer. Be welcoming and courteous, but they are not here to meet. you. Clean out your personal belongings and photos. It’s hard enough that someone is living there, and the person who lives there is giving a tour…but on top of that, all your family photos are everywhere. It will be difficult for a buyer to imagine that it is his home.

If you have the phone number, please call the next day to follow up. Just ask “what did you think TEA House not “MY“home)?” Ask how they felt it showed up and the price compared to others. Hear to what they say You may not agree with how they felt, but use it as constructive criticism. Remember, this is business now…not personal. Treat it as it is…a transaction. Don’t rule out a buyer’s agent if they want to sell your home. You’ll still save money, and if it means selling the house faster, that’s in your best interest.