For Sale By Owner Savvy: Screen Buyers Like a Pro & Sell Safely

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Selling your home For Sale By Owner (FSBO) requires extra vigilance. Here's how to screen potential buyers before giving up your time or access:

Initial Phone Call Pre-Qualification Script:

Before providing access to your home, ensure potential buyers are financially qualified.

When a buyer expresses interest in your home, start with a friendly conversation about their interest and timeline. If they express interest in scheduling a showing use the script below!

Also Politely inquire if they are currently working with a real estate agent.

Financial Readiness:

• Ask if the buyer has been pre-qualified for a mortgage. If they have, request a proof-of-funds letter or pre-approval document from their lender.

• If not pre-qualified, encourage them to consult with a mortgage lender to assess their borrowing capacity.

Affordability Discussion:

• Without prying too much, discuss their budget and ensure it aligns with your home's listing price.

Buyer's Motivation:

• Understand the buyer's motivation for purchasing a home. This can provide insights into their seriousness and commitment.

Here's a script you can use:

"Thank you for your interest in my home! To ensure a smooth process, have you been pre-qualified for a mortgage? If so, could you provide a proof-of-funds letter or pre-approval document? If not, I recommend connecting with a mortgage lender to assess your budget and financing options. This ensures we focus on showing our home to buyers that can meet our timeline and price."

Pre-Showing Email/Text:

• Subject: Pre-Showing Interest Check for [Your Address]

Hi [Buyer Name],

Thanks for your interest in my home! Before scheduling a showing, I'd appreciate a quick check-in to ensure my home fits your needs:

• Financing: Are you pre-approved for a mortgage? If so, would you mind sharing your pre-approval letter or screenshot of the amount? If not, what's your financing plan and estimated budget range?

• Timeline: When are you looking to move? Does this align with my target closing date?

• Motivation: What do you like you about my home and its features. Are there any deal breakers for you?

Thanks! I'll let you know about scheduling soon. Let me know if you have any questions.

Thanks, [Your Name]

[Contact Information]

My Home, My Sale Shop:

For Sale By Owner Yard Sign

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Open House Signs

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Real Estate Marketing Campaign

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Safety Tips:

• Never give out Lock Box codes without pre-screening. Use email/text confirmation for scheduled showings. [Lock Box For House Keys, Outdoor]

• Meet buyers in person beforehand, at a neutral location like a coffee shop, before granting access.

• Do background checks. Online tools can provide basic information for peace of mind.

• Trust your gut. If something feels off, postpone or cancel the showing.

• Consider requiring ID verification before the showing.

• Always accompany buyers during showings. Don't let them roam freely.

• Remove valuables and sensitive documents from the house before showings.

• Lock doors and windows securely before and after each showing.

• Install a security camera to monitor activity when you're not present. [Ring Outdoor Camera, Live View]

By implementing these steps, you can confidently screen potential buyers, prioritize serious inquiries, and ensure a safe and successful FSBO experience. Remember, your time and safety are invaluable!

Additional Tips:

• My Home, My Sale offers tools like Buyer Interest Forms to pre-qualify leads before you even connect.

My Home, My Sale_ Buyer Interest Form

.docx

Download DOCX • 7KB

My Home, My Sale_ Buyer Interest Form

.pdf

Download PDF • 49KB

Buyer Interest Form Link

• Use online platforms to schedule appointments and manage showing access securely.

Stay safe and sell smart!