5 Major Mistakes to Avoid When Selling Your Home FSBO

by Priscilla Fitzpatrick

Thinking about selling your home on your own? First of all—props to you. It’s a big step, and I get the appeal of wanting to DIY your sale. But before you plant that “For Sale By Owner” sign in the yard, let’s have some real talk. FSBO can feel empowering, but it can also get messy fast if you’re not careful. Here are five mistakes I see over and over again that could cost you time, money, and peace of mind.

1. Pricing Like It’s Personal

Your home is full of memories, but buyers aren’t paying for the birthday parties or late-night laughs in the kitchen. Price it too high, and your home will sit. Price it too low, and you’re leaving money on the table. The sweet spot? Research the comps, look at current market conditions, and consider an appraisal if you’re unsure. It’s not about what you feel your home is worth—it’s about what the market says.

2. Photos That Don’t Do Your Home Justice

In today’s world, buyers are shopping online first. If your photos are dark, blurry, or full of clutter, you’ve already lost their attention. Clear off the counters, put away the laundry, open the blinds, and show your home in the best possible light. Think of your photos as your home’s dating profile—you want buyers swiping right, not scrolling past.

3. Skipping the Fixes

Little things add up. Leaky faucets, chipped paint, that one closet door that never shuts right—buyers notice. Even if you’re not doing a full renovation, taking care of small repairs goes a long way. And if your roof, HVAC, or other big-ticket items are on their last leg, expect buyers to use that as leverage in negotiations. A home that feels move-in ready almost always sells faster and for more.

4. Hiding Your Home

The biggest mistake FSBO sellers make? Not marketing their home enough. A yard sign alone won’t cut it. Get your home online—MLS sites, social media, virtual tours, all of it. The more eyes on your property, the better your odds of finding the right buyer. And don’t underestimate word of mouth—let friends, family, and coworkers know you’re selling. Someone always knows someone.

5. Letting Emotions Run the Show

Selling a home is personal—but when you’re the seller and the agent, it’s easy to take things to heart. A low offer or tough feedback from a buyer isn’t an insult—it’s part of the process. Keep your cool, stay flexible with showings, and remember the end goal: selling your home and moving on to what’s next. Depersonalizing your space (family photos, collections, etc.) also helps buyers picture themselves living there—which is exactly what you want.

Bottom Line

Selling FSBO can absolutely work, but it’s not for the faint of heart. Do your homework, keep your emotions in check, and don’t cut corners. And if at any point you decide the stress isn’t worth it, that’s where I come in. I help sellers maximize their profit and minimize the headaches.

👉 Thinking about selling and curious what your home could actually sell for in today’s market? Click here to request a free home valuation or send me a message—I’d love to walk you through your options and help you decide whether FSBO or full-service representation makes the most sense for you.