How to Sell a House By Owner in Vermont
Discover how to sell a house by owner in Vermont with this step-by-step guide. Learn the FSBO process, avoid pitfalls, and explore alternative options.
Thinking about selling your Vermont home by owner to save on agent fees? The “for sale by owner” (FSBO) route appeals to many homeowners for the potential savings, but there are challenges involved. From accurately pricing your home to managing negotiations, selling FSBO means taking on every step yourself — and it’s not always easy.
Statistics show that FSBO homes typically sell for less than agent-listed homes. According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), only about 7% of sellers go FSBO, and nearly 60% of those already know the buyer, such as a family member or friend. When agents get involved, they can help drive higher sale prices, often offsetting the cost of commission with extra profit.
In this guide, we’ll explore what it takes to successfully sell a Vermont home by owner and discuss some alternatives that could help you maximize your sale.
Unsure About Selling FSBO in Vermont?
If you don’t have the time or expertise to list your home FSBO, partner with a trusted, top agent in your Vermont market. We analyze over 27 million transactions and thousands of reviews to find you the best agent for your unique situation.
Editor’s note: No matter how you choose to sell your home, if you’d like to consult with a top agent first, HomeLight can connect you to highly-rated professionals in your Vermont market. Transaction data shows that the top 5% of agents sell homes for 10% or more than average agents.
Why sell a house by owner in Vermont?
The top reason Vermont homeowners consider selling FSBO is to avoid paying a listing agent’s commission. But with recent rule changes, the potential savings may not be what they once were.
Traditionally, sellers paid about 6% of the sale price to cover both the listing and buyer agent fees. A 2024 NAR court settlement has shifted this responsibility, so buyers now handle their own agent commissions.
This means a Vermont FSBO seller might save around 3% — an attractive proposition if you’re ready for the work involved. In addition, a FSBO sale can offer a rewarding challenge, but it’s essential to weigh these pros and cons before deciding.
Pros of selling a house by owner
- Save up to 3% on listing agent fees
- Directly control the sales process
- Deal with buyers directly, avoiding go-between delays
Cons of selling a house by owner
- FSBO homes generally sell for lower prices
- Without a prearranged buyer, FSBOs may take longer to sell
- Complex communications and negotiations fall on you
- Lack of support may result in costly mistakes
- Setting the right price is challenging without market expertise
- Marketing, home showings, and advertising require time and money
- Legal liabilities for disclosures and other requirements can be costly
- Showing your home to strangers can present safety risks
»Learn more: Is it Hard to Sell Your House on Your Own?