REF Realty - www.ref4less.com - 376 Washington St. - Suite 101 - Malden, MA 02148 - Phone: 781.322.4744
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Comparison Chart

The table below compares a seller’s responsibility between selling on their own (referred to as FSBO or “For Sale By Owner”) vs. selling with the hands on service of an agent.  We are not going to throw all kinds of statistics at you about how FSBO’s convert to working with an agent and how it’s more difficult to sell on your own, etc. That would defeat the purpose of the services we are offering. You have the right to options and the decision is yours. Regardless of your decision, we encourage you to utilize the Seller Strategy workbook as your guide through the sale process.

Provided is a comparison chart of the steps in the sale process and what you can expect as a Seller to be responsible for. It’s important to understand all the steps involved. Feel free to call us with questions. If you understand and feel comfortable with handling all or some of the checklist, then explore our Seller Programs to see which best suits your selling needs:

Task Brief Description FSBO Agent
Improvements Work that you think will enhance your home's appearance, especially those needed repairs.
 Seller Seller
Code Issues Confirm that all prior work performed on your home has been permitted, ex: in-law apartments
 Seller Agent
Staging Professional stager can help take the clutter out Seller Seller
Photos Good photos set a good 1st impression and can go a long way Seller Agent
Expenses & Sale Price Know your bottom line and expenses involved Seller Agent
Property Benefits Hit the emotional hot buttons of your home in any advertisement Seller Agent
Understand Your Market Know your market…over-pricing is a mistake Seller Agent
Seller's Statement of Disclosure Disclosing what you know about your property to Buyers....both good and bad. Seller Seller
Property Information Useful info to provide: square footage, taxes, etc Seller Agent
Set the List Price Set the right price; it can make a smooth process Seller Agent
Advertising Internet is most common and widely used and should be utilized.
 Seller Agent
Feature Sheets One pager with highlights to provide to prospects Seller Agent
Signage Make sure your contact info is large and visible, especially at night Seller Agent
Property Showings Understanding inexpensive ways for your home to show nicely 
 Seller Agent
Open Houses Know the do’s and don’ts and rules of safety Seller Agent
Negotiation & Contract Documents Always advised to hire an attorney to review all contract documents Seller Agent
Timelines & Contingencies Inspection period, financing, closing, etc, etc…. Seller Agent
Smoke Inspection Required to have done prior to closing; contact local fire dept. Seller Agent
Final Utility Readings Water, Sewer, Oil, etc… Seller Agent
6(d) Certificate (CONDOS) Confirm that there are no liens on the unit and all fees are paid to date Seller Agent
Certificate of Insurance (CONDOS) Required for buildings Master Insurance policy Seller Agent
Deed Drafted by Attorney Deed must be drafted to transfer ownership Seller Seller
Provide Property Keys Keys, garage openers, etc…anything of relevance Seller Seller