I have a bone to pick with For-Sale-By-Owner (FSBO) homes around Illinois, particularly the North Shore. I’m surprised that FSBOs haven’t caught on more, that more people haven’t ditched the middle man in favor of a better sell. I used to work for a FSBO company, and saw where a lot of FSBO misconceptions stemmed from that tend to keep people away from exploring that avenue. There are not nearly as many FSBO homes on the North Shore compared to other suburbs, and I can think of a few reasons why. Here are a couple of kvetches I’ve heard:
FSBO is Tacky.
FSBO homes are not tacky by nature. The homesellers make them that way. Mind you, the homes that are for sale are not the problem; the photos, descriptions, and advertising avenues are generally less attention-grabbing. Don’t even get me started on those “FOR SALE BY OWNER” signs. If you are decent with a camera and know a friend that can fashion a clearly written paragraph, you can do it better.
FSBOs aren’t on the MLS!
But a few FSBOs are directly linked into Redfin. Aside from that, the entire internet is at your fingertips. From a seller’s perspective, the MLS is one of many methods to find a home online, without a broker.
But I feel bad for the brokers!
I do too. This economy is tough. We might all have to eat macaroni and cheese for awhile.
Brokers: I ask you to state your case here. Why should North Shore dwellers come to you?
Until then: Here are some well-done FSBO’s I’ve come across:
1834 Ridge Ave
Evanston, IL 60201
Beds: 2 On Redfin: 93 days
Baths: 2.5 Year Built: 2000
2677 Prairie Ave
Evanston, IL 60201
Beds: 4 On Redfin: 93 days
Baths: 2.5 Year Built: 1921
37 Hackberry Ln
Glenview, IL 60025 (On the Wilmette Border)
Beds: 3 On Redfin: 93 days
Baths: 2.5 Year Built: -
1474 Oakwood Ave
Highland Park, IL 60035
Beds: 4 On Redfin: 93 days
Baths: 3 Year Built: 1993