For-sale-by-owner (FSBO) sounds simple: list the home yourself, avoid paying a commission, and walk away with more money. But in real-world practice — especially along the fast-moving Gulf Coast — it rarely works that way.
The biggest challenge FSBO sellers face isn’t marketing or paperwork. It’s negotiation.
When you represent yourself, you lose the advantage of neutrality. Every strong negotiator knows this: people negotiate better for others than they do for themselves. It’s why lawyers hire lawyers. It’s why even real estate agents rarely list their own homes.
The risks FSBO sellers face include:
• Underpricing the home
• Overpricing the home
• Leaving repair credits on the table
• Accepting unfavorable contract terms
• Missing disclosure requirements
• Allowing unqualified buyers into the property
Buyers also expect FSBO sellers to “discount” because no agent is involved — which completely erases the imagined savings.
Most FSBOs either end up hiring an agent after weeks of stress or they sell for significantly less than they could have with representation.
If you’re a FSBO who wants to protect your equity without giving up control, my 1 percent listing model is the bridge. You get full representation and major savings, with none of the FSBO stress.