For Sale By Owner

For Sale By Owner (FSBO)

A lot of homeowners today are trying to sell their homes themselves. Affectionally, we refer to them as FSBO's. I applaud your efforts and wish you the best of success.

However, let's look at some pros and cons of FSBO.

Pros of FSBO

1. Commission savings

2. You control the listing side

3. You schedule your own showings (can be a con!)

Cons of FSBO

1. People looking for a FSBO are trying to save money just like you. They expect you to give up the commission that you are saving.

2. You don't get good feedback. People will be nice to you but not necessarily honest. Good feedback is imperative. (Example, if they smell dogs or diapers, they won't tell you this!)

3. Exposure! You are limited to drive bys, word of mouth, perhaps a few craigs list ads, signs at work or grocery store, etc. The MLS (now called the BLC) gives you exposure to thousands of buyers.

4. You're on your own professionally. If you're not fluent in the process, it could cost you because you don't have professional representation.

5. You may not know the right people to call for inspections, title companies, legal advice, home repairs, etc.

6. You're probably on an uneven playing field with your buyer. A realtor's job is to professionally represent their client. This evens the playing field.

7. Negotiations are almost always awkward.

8. Limited access to realtime information regarding current listings, pendings, solds and market.

9. Many FSBO's don't fully understand the process from contract to closing.

10. Every transaction has some type of twist. A realtor's job is to smooth out those twists with the most favorable outcome to you as possible. As a FSBO, you're on your own. (Example. suppose that your inspection revealed a latent defect in your foundation. An encroachment. A subdivision violation. Evidence of mold or termites. A cloud on the title. What about possession. Home Warranty. Who pays for what at closing. What is an appropriate earnest money. What about seller paid closing cost.... the list goes on and on.)

So.... What about a limited service listing like "Assist to Sell"?

That only solves part of the issue. You still interface with the buyer directly, schedule your own showings, realtor is limited in their service to you. We usually find these programs of limited success.

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Personally, I've walked the FSBO route. I actually sold a home in 1994 as a FSBO. I've owned 6 homes in the last 26 years. I lucked out in 1994 but I would describe the transaction in one word: stressful!

In 2003, I had a limited service listing with Home Yeah! I paid $500 to get me in the MLS. That didn't work so hot. One word: awkward!

In 2005, I had my home listed with a realtor but would not listen to him. We were way over priced. We eventually sold the home less than what the realtor suggested because the listing became stale. We were 2.5 years on the market before we woke up. One word: stubborn!

Then...I got smart! I started listening to my realtors and learned the value of what they provide. I became a realtor in early 2007 and have had excellent success in representing both buyers and sellers. My record listing in 18 hours from entering the BLC to an accepted contract. That's hours...not days!

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Most FSBO's give up after 60 days and list with a realtor anyway. Good realtors will be honest and list the home only after an appropriate amount of due diligence, market research and home preparation. A good realtor doesn't take a listing that they cannot sell. That doesn't help anyone.

I'd love to share with you what I've learned and how it will work for you.

Give me, Robby, Jen or Stephen a call.

Below you'll find the latest SOLD homes in Fishers, Carmel and Noblesville. Our site actually let's you search the latest SOLD homes. Also be sure to check out market reports! These are amazing and will give you excellent info.

Robert Haynes

317-250-7213

SOLD Homes

6184 Maple Grove Way, Noblesville $405,000

Beautifully appointed & wonderfully maintained 4BR/3.5BA home in desirable Mill Grove loaded w/updates. Upon entering, you'll find a 2-story foyer w/beautiful hardwoods o...

4 Beds
4 Baths

Courtesy of RE/MAX Edge

Listing courtesy of RE/MAX Edge. Selling Office: Encore Sotheby's International.

10458 Spring Highland Drive, Carmel image

10458 Spring Highland Drive, Carmel $590,700

One of the best lots in the Reserve! Privacy is the best way to describe it. Spacious one owner home with an unfinished walkout lower level (there is one finished possib...

4 Beds
3 Baths

Courtesy of F.C. Tucker Company

Listing courtesy of F.C. Tucker Company. Selling Office: Stonegate Real Estate Group.

4931 Citadel Drive, Noblesville $405,000

Huge opportunity to own a new, never lived in before ranch home without having to wait for the construction process to finish! This home has it all! Laminated hardwoods t...

3 Beds
2 Baths

Courtesy of Trueblood Real Estate

Listing courtesy of Trueblood Real Estate. Selling Office: F.C. Tucker Company.

11551 Charleston Parkway, Fishers $313,500

Location, location, location! This 3 bed /2.5 bath home in sought after Charleston Crossing has many updates! Large foyer opens to the LR & DR. Kitchen with updated in 20...

3 Beds
3 Baths

Courtesy of Trueblood Real Estate

Listing courtesy of Trueblood Real Estate. Selling Office: Trueblood Real Estate.

12332 Carriage Stone Drive, Fishers image

12332 Carriage Stone Drive, Fishers $323,000

Move Right In. Pride of ownership radiates throughout this gorgeous 2_Story, 3-Bedroom, 2.5 Bath plus Upper Loft Home in desirable Sandstone Meadows of Fishers. Gorgeous ...

3 Beds
3 Baths

Courtesy of F.C. Tucker Company

Listing courtesy of F.C. Tucker Company. Selling Office: Streamlined Realty.

12075 Scoria Drive, Fishers $211,000

Incredible 2 bed condo with all the amenities is located close to Hamilton Town Center with easy access to I-69! Once inside you will adore the open concept main floor wi...

2 Beds
3 Baths

Courtesy of Keller Williams Indpls Metro N

Listing courtesy of Keller Williams Indpls Metro N. Selling Office: Keller Williams Indpls Metro N.

19501 DIAMOND Way, Noblesville $331,217

Don't miss out on this updated BEAUTY in Morse Park Estates. Tons of upgrades! 3 well appointed bedrooms & 2 full baths w/large loft space, situated on an expansive corne...

3 Beds
2 Baths

Courtesy of Trueblood Real Estate

Listing courtesy of Trueblood Real Estate. Selling Office: eXp Realty, LLC.

5814 Mill Oak Drive, Noblesville $300,000

Don't miss this cozy 3bd/2ba Noblesville home! This home has so much charm with vaulted ceilings, tons of natural light, and an open flow. The kitchen has plenty of count...

3 Beds
2 Baths

Courtesy of Keller Williams Indpls Metro N

Listing courtesy of Keller Williams Indpls Metro N. Selling Office: Carpenter, REALTORS®.

15700 Harvester Circle W, Noblesville image

15700 Harvester Circle W, Noblesville $299,995

Enjoy the effortless lifestyle in Lennar’s exclusive maintenance-free community, Brooks Farm. Perfectly sized, the Auburn floor plan offers 2 main-floor beds, 2 baths, op...

2 Beds
2 Baths

Courtesy of CENTURY 21 Scheetz

Listing courtesy of CENTURY 21 Scheetz. Selling Office: Nottingham Realty, LLC.

15698 Harvester Circle W, Noblesville image

15698 Harvester Circle W, Noblesville $309,995

The Dunbar features an open kitchen with a spacious island and generous dining area plus sunroom, perfect for entertaining guests. The generous Great Room has 9’ ceilings...

2 Beds
2 Baths

Courtesy of CENTURY 21 Scheetz

Listing courtesy of CENTURY 21 Scheetz. Selling Office: Carpenter, REALTORS®.

15738 Arthur Jacob Lane, Noblesville image

15738 Arthur Jacob Lane, Noblesville $472,780

This design is the most open and spacious designs we have ever created. The large island with seating for six or more anchors the space between the great room, dining and...

4 Beds
3 Baths

Courtesy of CENTURY 21 Scheetz

Listing courtesy of CENTURY 21 Scheetz. Selling Office: F.C. Tucker Company.

13034 Deerstyne Green Street, Carmel image

13034 Deerstyne Green Street, Carmel $912,000

Gorgeous brick home with park views located in The Village of WestClay. Beautiful open floor plan perfect for entertaining. Private office w/coffered ceiling & built-in...

5 Beds
5 Baths

Courtesy of Compass Indiana, LLC

Listing courtesy of Compass Indiana, LLC. Selling Office: Compass Indiana, LLC.

11178 Timberview Drive, Fishers $475,000

The list goes on for this one: Fishers location on cul-de-sac, 4 bedrooms, laundry room upstairs in master bath which has huge shower, sitting room in master, full finish...

4 Beds
4 Baths

Courtesy of Real Broker, LLC

Listing courtesy of Real Broker, LLC. Selling Office: CENTURY 21 Scheetz.

2986 Brooks Bend Drive, Carmel $265,000

Charming ranch with new roof, new walk-in shower and new water heater. Water views of pond and 2 mature trees in the back. Fireplace, 3 season room, and swing on the fron...

2 Beds
2 Baths

Courtesy of F.C. Tucker Company

Listing courtesy of F.C. Tucker Company. Selling Office: LS Realty Consultants.

11706 RUSH Drive, Fishers $306,500

Make this home a "gift" to yourself - fully updated 4 bedroom / 2.5 bath split level home in the heart of Fishers. Move right into this updated charmer with new windows,...

4 Beds
3 Baths

Courtesy of Keller Williams Indpls Metro N

Listing courtesy of Keller Williams Indpls Metro N. Selling Office: J S Ruiz Realty, Inc..

11713 Holland Drive, Fishers $340,000

Location, location, location! This home offers a deep 1/2 acre backyard w/red maple, lilac & sycamore trees while only minutes from Fishers' vibrant downtown area. (See ...

4 Beds
3 Baths

Courtesy of F.C. Tucker Company

Listing courtesy of F.C. Tucker Company. Selling Office: F.C. Tucker Company.

15233 Brantley Lane, Noblesville $380,000

Charming curb appeal gives way to an inviting interior that offers bright, on-trend spaces lined with fine finishes. The main level layout perfectly blends form and funct...

4 Beds
3 Baths

Courtesy of Encore Sotheby's International

Listing courtesy of Encore Sotheby's International. Selling Office: Weichert REALTORS® Cooper Grou.

10668 Northhampton Drive, Fishers $303,000

3bdr 2.5ba beauty on cul-de-sac in lovely Northfield Estates! Relax in private backyard oasis surrounded by mature trees. Tons of Natural Light pours into Living Room whi...

3 Beds
3 Baths

Courtesy of F.C. Tucker Company

Listing courtesy of F.C. Tucker Company. Selling Office: F.C. Tucker Company.

3335 EDEN VILLAGE Drive, Carmel $283,500

Beautifully maintained 2 Bedroom 2 Bath rancher approximately one mile from Carmel Midtown and Monon Trail. Home features an open floor concept with beautiful updated ki...

2 Beds
2 Baths

Courtesy of Coldwell Banker - Kaiser

Listing courtesy of Coldwell Banker - Kaiser. Selling Office: eXp Realty, LLC.

13667 WHITTEN Drive S, Fishers $425,000

Beautiful home in highly desirable Saxony subdivision close to shopping, entertainment, schools & restaurants. Tucked back on a quiet secluded street but close to communi...

3 Beds
4 Baths

Courtesy of Carpenter, REALTORS®

Listing courtesy of Carpenter, REALTORS®. Selling Office: F.C. Tucker Company.

12989 Dellinger Drive, Fishers $290,000

Another example of the holiday season here as this gem is the gift you have been searching for has arrived. Pull into the drive and begin to smile with your mature trees...

3 Beds
3 Baths

Courtesy of eXp Realty LLC

Listing courtesy of eXp Realty LLC. Selling Office: Acup Team, LLC.

13091 FAWNSBROOK Drive, Fishers $455,000

Great home in Fawnsbrook Woods with 5 bedrooms, 3.5 baths on well over ½ an acre. Home has many newer updates, including a brand new roof, complete basement remodel and n...

5 Beds
4 Baths

Courtesy of Ridgeline Realty, LLC

Listing courtesy of Ridgeline Realty, LLC. Selling Office: The Cascade Team Real Estate.

10441 Fox Creek Lane, Fishers $425,000

Fantastic home on large corner lot and dual cul-de-sac w/ mature trees & beautiful landscaping. Soaring, 2-story entry & great room. Beautiful engineered hardwoods throug...

4 Beds
3 Baths

Courtesy of F.C. Tucker Company

Listing courtesy of F.C. Tucker Company. Selling Office: IN-Homes Realty Solutions, INC.

12644 Branford St Street, Carmel $899,800

Impeccable, pristine, and tasteful home in the Heart of the Village of WestClay. Striking from the outside and spectacular on the inside. 10' ceilings on main/ 9' on low...