Top Buyer Tips on FSBO.com
Bookmark
Bookmark the FSBO.com Home page or Search page for easy navigation back to the site to start a new search. Each Listing also has a “Bookmark” feature so you can remember which listings you were interested in so you can come back frequently to look for changes or price reductions.
Use the Seller’s Contact info
Don’t be afraid to contact the seller from the information they have provided. If there is a phone number, they want you to call. If there is an email option, they want you to email. If you get the seller’s voicemail, leave a message. State your name, where you found the listing, and clearly/ slowly leave your phone number. Do not hesitate to follow up if you do not hear from them by the next day.
Search Open Houses
Many FSBO.com listings advertise their Open House times and dates online. You are now able to search for upcoming Open Houses in your area on FSBO.com. Sellers who hold their own Open Houses are serious about selling their home, and are therefore more willing to entertain all offers, and negotiate.
Get Pre-Qualified
Before you waste any of your time, or the seller’s time, make sure you can afford the property you are inquiring about. Be sure to contact a local Mortgage Professional from our Professional Services page for more info on getting pre-qualified, so you know exactly how much you can afford.
Submit An Offer
You cannot purchase a home without first submitting an offer. It is very rare that an initial offer gets accepted. Please visit the “Real Estate Contracts” section of FSBO.com, and download a copy of the contracts you will need to make an offer. Do not expect the seller to have this paper work ready for you. The easier you make the selling process for them, the more flexible they will be in accepting your offer.
Get A Home Inspection
Know what you are getting into - get a home inspection! After your offer is accepted, hire a professional home inspector. They will typically spend a couple of hours combing through the property to find minor and major problems, if any. The cost for this ranges depending on property type/size, but is generally between $300-$600. It is money well spent, as they should be able to point out things in a property that are often overlooked by buyers. Search the "Professional Services" page on FSBO.com to find a home inspector in your area.
After the Offer is Accepted
Your Mortgage Company will order the appraisal and the title work. You will not need an agent for any of that. It is all covered in the services provided by your mortgage company. They will have a Closing Attorney/Title Company handle the entire closing process and distribute and collect all monies changing hands.
After the Closing
Most experts suggest changing the locks on all of the exterior doors after you have purchased a new home. You never know how many keys are floating around for your new property. It is safest to simply get the locks changed right away.
