How to Sell a House by Owner in Pennsylvania

Last Updated: October 16, 2024

Sell Your Home Without a Realtor® with VELfixi.com

Selling your home without a real estate agent in Pennsylvania can be a great way to save money on commissions, but it requires some effort. We recommend you set aside at least 2 to 4 hours a week for this process. You can make $22,000 extra on the sale of your home, but it does require a little bit of time and attention. By following the right steps and leveraging resources like VELfixi, you can successfully navigate the process and keep more of your equity.

Image courtesy of Arsen Nikiforouk. Poconos Region, Pennsylvania. 2022

Steps to Sell FSBO in Pennsylvania

1. Research Your Local Market

Research is crucial before listing your home. Prices can vary significantly across Pennsylvania—homes in Erie County are priced at $165,000 on average, while Bucks County averages $460,000. With VELfixi’s services, you can access local market data and set the right price to sell quickly. We recommend settling on the final price by speaking to a few real estate agents to see what the local comparables are, or we can help you get this information with our online agent service. If you want the agent to handle everything except being there to open doors, this option can work out great for you and only costs 1% versus the 3% you'd find elsewhere.

2. List and Market Your Home

Once you’ve set your price, high-quality photos and a compelling description are key. VELfixi makes it easy by including MLS listings for free, giving your property maximum exposure. You also get targeted ads on Google, Facebook, and Instagram, helping you sell faster.

3. Negotiate and Close the Deal

Negotiating without an agent can seem daunting, but VELfixi offers additional services like transaction coordination and contract specialists to help you through the process. You’ll receive expert guidance without paying traditional agent fees. Alternatively, you can negotiate on your own and save more on the fees. We recommend that you approach negotiations professionally, be fair, level-headed, and firm, without being aggressive. Buyers are making a major purchase and will appreciate honesty and transparency.

Required Disclosures for Pennsylvania Sellers

In Pennsylvania, as in most other states, you’ll need to fill out a seller's disclosure form detailing known issues like water damage or HOA details. VELfixi ensures you meet these requirements easily and keep buyers informed. Remember, the disclosures document is a legal requirement, and you want to fill it out to the best of your knowledge. If your home was built before 1978, you will also need to complete a Lead-Based Paint Disclosure form.

Pros and Cons of FSBO

Pros:

• Save on Commissions: By avoiding agent fees, you save up to 6% of your home’s sale price, which can come to over $22,000.
• Control Over the Process: You set the price, market the home, and make all the decisions.
• Free MLS Listings with VELfixi: VELfixi includes MLS listings at no extra charge, ensuring your property gets seen. We highly recommend selecting "Market to buyers' agents" to achieve the same exposure as agent-listed properties.

Cons:

• Time Commitment: FSBO requires time for marketing, showings, and negotiations. We typically suggest setting aside at least 1 hour a week for inquiries, plus time for showings. VELfixi can guide you to maximize your efficiency.
• Potential Lower Sale Price: If you don't follow the proper steps, you may sell for less. VELfixi is here to help ensure you get a competitive price through proper marketing and pricing strategies, but it’s up to you to follow the guidance for success.

Strategies for Success

1. Stay Informed: Keep up with real estate market changes. Markets fluctuate, and staying updated is key.
2. Adapt Pricing: Be flexible and consider offering closing cost incentives. A competitive price often leads to a higher sales price. If you're unsure about pricing, schedule a free consultation with our experts.
3. Use VELfixi: With VELfixi, you save on listing fees while gaining MLS exposure and professional marketing tools.

Conclusion

Selling FSBO in Pennsylvania is possible with the right resources and guidance. VELfixi provides a cost-effective solution for homeowners looking to avoid realtor fees while still gaining professional support. From MLS listings to targeted ads, VELfixi helps you sell your home faster and more profitably.

By staying informed, using VELfixi’s tools, and adapting your pricing strategies, you can achieve a successful FSBO sale without sacrificing time or profits. Whether you need marketing assistance or just want to list your home with maximum exposure, VELfixi is here to help you every step of the way.