How to Sell Your House Without a Real Estate Agent

Why Sell Without an Agent?

Real estate agents typically charge a commission of 5% to 6% of the final sale price. On a $500,000 home, that’s $25,000 to $30,000—money you could keep in your pocket.

Selling without an agent gives you full control over the process, from pricing to negotiations. You can work on your timeline, set your own terms, and directly interact with buyers.

Step 1: Prepare Your Home for Sale

First impressions matter. Before listing your home, make sure it’s looking its best.

Declutter and Clean

Clear out personal items and excess furniture. Clean every room thoroughly, including windows, floors, and surfaces.

Make Minor Repairs

Fix leaky faucets, patch holes, and touch up paint. Replace broken tiles and consider updating outdated fixtures.

Stage the Home

You don’t need a professional stager. Simply arrange furniture to make rooms look open and inviting. Add fresh flowers or cozy touches to give your home a lived-in feel.

Step 2: Set the Right Price

Pricing your home correctly is key. Too high, and it may sit unsold. Too low, and you lose money.

Do a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA)

Look at similar homes in your area that have recently sold. Pay attention to size, condition, location, and features. Sites like Zillow, Redfin, and Realtor.com offer tools to estimate your home’s value.

Consider a Professional Appraisal

For a more accurate valuation, you can hire a licensed appraiser. This usually costs $300 to $500 but can give buyers confidence in your asking price.

Step 3: Market Your Property

Marketing is essential when you're selling on your own.

Take High-Quality Photos

Use natural lighting and shoot from angles that make rooms look spacious. If possible, hire a professional photographer—it’s worth the investment.

Write a Compelling Listing Description

Highlight key features like a large backyard, renovated kitchen, or proximity to schools and parks. Keep the language clear and honest.

List Your Home Online

Use popular real estate platforms like:

Zillow
ForSaleByOwner.com
Facebook Marketplace
Craigslist

Also, post on your social media and consider local community groups.

Use a “For Sale” Sign

A traditional yard sign still works. Make sure it includes your contact info and is visible from the street.

Step 4: Show Your Home

Be prepared to schedule and conduct showings.

Be Flexible With Timing

The more available you are, the better your chances of attracting buyers. Try to accommodate evenings and weekends.

Create a Welcoming Atmosphere

Open blinds, turn on lights, and play soft background music. Make sure the house smells fresh—bake cookies or light a scented candle.

Provide Flyers or Brochures

Have printed materials with photos, price, features, and your contact information ready for visitors to take with them.

Step 5: Negotiate the Offer

When you get an offer, review it carefully. You can accept, reject, or counter.

Understand the Terms

Besides price, look at contingencies (e.g., financing, inspections), closing timeline, and what’s included (appliances, fixtures, etc.).

Be Ready to Negotiate

Most buyers expect a back-and-forth. Stay calm and professional. Know your bottom line and try to find common ground.

If you’re unsure about legal terms, it’s smart to consult a real estate attorney.

Step 6: Handle the Paperwork

Selling a house involves a lot of legal documents. You’ll need to manage:

The purchase agreement
Property disclosures
Title paperwork
Inspection reports
Closing statements

Hire a Real Estate Attorney or Title Company

Even without an agent, you’ll want a pro to help with contracts and closing. Attorneys typically charge a flat fee or hourly rate, but they can protect your interests and make sure the sale is legally sound.

Step 7: Close the Deal

Once both parties agree, you’ll go into escrow.

Prepare for the Closing

During escrow, the buyer’s financing is finalized, inspections are completed, and the title is reviewed.

Sign the Final Documents

Once everything is in order, you’ll meet with the buyer (or their representatives) to sign documents and transfer ownership.

Get Paid!

After closing, the buyer's lender will release funds. You'll receive the payment (minus any fees like mortgage payoff or taxes), and the deal is done.

Tips for Success

Stay organized: Keep all your documents in one place.
Be responsive: Answer buyer inquiries quickly and professionally.
Be honest: Disclose any known issues to avoid legal trouble.
Stay safe: Vet potential buyers before letting them into your home.

Final Thoughts

Selling your house without a real estate agent can be a rewarding experience—both personally and financially. It gives you more control and lets you pocket more profit. While it requires time, effort, and attention to detail, many homeowners find it well worth the work.

If you're confident, prepared, and ready to take charge, you can absolutely sell your house on your own.