When it comes to selling your Sacramento property or investment, it’s essential to explore your options. While real estate agents offer valuable services, the hefty 5-6% commission can be a significant expense. In some cases, their assistance is invaluable, but not always.
Let’s delve into some strategies that can help you navigate the Sacramento real estate market without incurring these high commissions while maintaining a professional approach:
1. Master the Commission Game: In Sacramento, there’s a curious custom where about half of the commission you pay as a seller goes toward the buyer’s broker. While it might seem unusual, it’s the norm.
2. Turning Custom to Your Advantage: When evaluating comparable sales, consider properties that have been sold at prices inclusive of commissions. This approach ensures you don’t undervalue your property. By assuming the role of the agent, you can save that money.
3. Negotiate with Finesse: Buyers without an agent often forget to negotiate the buyer’s side commission out of the price. If you prefer not to pay it, stay silent, but be prepared if it comes up during negotiations.
4. Offering Buyer’s Agents an Incentive: You can opt to offer a 2.5% commission to buyer’s agents who bring clients to view your property. While it may seem like a substantial amount, if you’ve priced your property accordingly, you can negotiate more favorable deals with buyers who don’t have an agent.
5. Embracing the Power of MLS: In Sacramento, over 90% of property transactions occur through the Multiple Listing Service (MLS). It’s the primary database that brokers use to access property information. In the past, you had to pay a full commission to list your property on the MLS. These days, several brokers charge a fee to list your property, with commissions payable only upon sale completion.
6. Leveraging Online Real Estate Giants: The MLS feeds data to major real estate websites like Realtor.com, Zillow, and Yahoo Homes. Listing your property on the MLS ensures your property information reaches a vast audience.
7. A World of Online Advertising: While the effectiveness of advertising can vary, it’s an essential aspect of selling your property on your own. Consider using online platforms, such as Craigslist, to post property information. Additionally, explore paid options to enhance your listing.
8. Effective Marketing is Key: Simply putting up flyers and hosting an open house may not suffice if your property doesn’t align with the average homebuyer’s expectations. Effective marketing strategies are crucial.
9. Exploring Investor Alternatives: If you’re keen to avoid commissions altogether, selling to investors is a viable option. Investors like us offer fair prices for properties and can close the deal rapidly, sometimes in as little as 3-5 days.
Whether we’re purchasing properties for renovation and rental or to sell to others in the area, we’re here to assist. Reach out to us today at (916) 476-2381 or complete our brief form to initiate the process. Our commitment to the Sacramento real estate market knows no bounds.
Selling your Sacramento property without a real estate agent is a practical and cost-effective approach. Get in touch with us today to explore your options and unlock the path to a successful sale.