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FSBO Security Tips

If you intend to sell your home For Sale By Owner ("FSBO") there are some security factors to take into consideration.

First, understand that you are opening up your home to complete strangers.  How will you know they are who they say they are?  The easiest way is to align yourself with a reputable mortgage banker.
Your mortgage 'partner' should be willing to screen your potential buyers for no charge to you.  At a minimum they should verify income, assets and credit scores.  This gives you the added benefit of spending time with only those who can truly follow through with a solid offer.  Why waste your time showing your home to people who aren't creditworthy?
A good mortgage 'partner' can also provide you with marketing materials to help you sell your home, i.e. fliers listing finance options.

If you prefer to work alone, there are some precautions that should be taken without fail:
1. Never leave any message on your answering machine saying that you are not at home. It will be better to say that you are unavailable to answer at that time.
2. Always get the name and phone number of a person before making an  appointment to show your house. Never forget to cross verify the given number.
3. Remove all keys, money and other valuables from the house before you show it or conduct an open house.
4. Have a guest book available and make the visitor sign it with their address and phone number. Note that there is no guaranty that their info is truthful.
5. Ensure all visitors enter and exit through the same door.
6. Always follow the visitor through your home rather than leading them.
7. Never enter a bedroom or other room with a visitor, as there is a possibility of getting you trapped inside.
8. Never be alone with a visitor.

I hope these tips help you sell your home and keep you safe!  Good luck ~
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June 05 - Albuquerque

Replies (7)

Profile picture for akoi
Real Estate Agent
Contributions: 1032
Charlie, VERY good advice!  I always have a mortgage person at an open house.
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June 05
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rockinblu

Glen Carbon, IL

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Since February 2009

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June 05
Great advice!  Thank you!
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June 09
Profile picture for 35Knoll
Thanks for the tips... Very useful
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June 10
you should take precaution. 

But in all my years of real estate the worst thing i've heard of happening is a missing braclet during an open house in brooklyn. Rough Neighbohood.



you know your area.

Selling fsbo is very easy and safe.

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August 06
Those are good tips, but they apply whether you are selling FSBO or using an agent.  When I've "house hunted" over the years and I've never had the agent I was working with check me out in any way.  Having a buyer come by with an agent is no guarantee that they have no ill intent. 
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August 21
Profile picture for Gainesville Realtor
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There are dangers and potential problems no matter if you are selling alone, with and agent, or buying alone or with an agent. How many times has the owner or listing agent verified who you and your buyer were before setting up a showing appointment? As always stay safe. Good tips.
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August 21
 

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