If you’re
planning to sell your home “For Sale By Owner” (best known as “FSBO”) in
Houston, it will be vital that you give some serious thought to the MLS. “MLS”
(Multiple Listing Service) is the database used and updated by real estate
professionals and trade associations. It’s used to organize and publicize
available listings for everyone interested in buying a house. Access to any MLS
system is restricted to agents and brokers, since they are licensed, insured,
and have been trained in correct use of the technically-complex system.
In today’s
digital age, FSBO sellers who chose to just put up a lawn sign and advertise in
local newspapers put themselves at a daunting disadvantage. Yet if you try to
sell your house yourself as an Houston FSBO, there are ways you can get
your property included in the Multiple Listing Service.
One way to
get a listing in MLS systems is by registering on one of the FSBO websites,
like ForSalebyOwner.com (which includes a “Find a Pro” tab on its home page!).
Such sites usually sell several different packages, including various uses of
MLS, with up-charges for things like additional photos or unlimited listing
times.
When
preparing your listing, you’ll want attractive, professional-quality photos; a
clear, concise selling description; and accurate metrics including your
address, the number of bedrooms and bathrooms, square feet, lot size, etc.
Accuracy here is vital – lawsuits have been successfully pursued against
sellers who provide inaccurate square footage or other metrics. (Stymied
already? Your tax records usually contain the needed information).
You will also need all the lawfully required
disclosures – and, of course – an asking price supportable by recent and
accurate comps.
In case that
sounds like a lot — just to deal with the listing, much less the whole selling
process — you’re not alone. If you’d rather worry less about getting your home
sold and focus more on finding your next one, hiring an agent is always an option.
If you’re preparing to sell your home in Houston– FSBO or not – I welcome your
questions anytime!
 |
Diego E. Jaramillo
Broker Associate, CIPS, ABR diego@houstonheritage.com |
Jair A. Jaramillo
Real Estate Consultant jair@houstonheritage.com |
Houston Heritage Group
Keller Williams Realty - The Metropolitan
Office: 713-980-5115
Fax: 832-603-4304
Website: www.HoustonHeritage.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/HoustonHeritageGroup Twitter: www.twitter.com/HoustonDiego Blog: www.TheHoustonBlog.com |
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