Can You Sell Your Home by Owner in Michigan?

Selling a home is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll ever make. While many homeowners turn to real estate agents for help, others wonder: can I do this myself? The answer is yes—you can sell your home by owner in Michigan. But is it the right move for you? 

At Eastbrook University, we’re here to help guide you through the homebuying process with the resources you need to feel informed and confident. Before you dive into the FSBO (For Sale By Owner) route, it’s important to weigh the benefits and challenges. In some cases, going solo could mean maximizing profit, while in others, it might not be worth the more time and stress involved. 

Let’s explore when FSBO makes sense, when it doesn’t, and what resources are available to help you along the way.

Pros and Cons of Selling Your Home FSBO

Pros:

• Save on commission fees – Real estate agents typically charge 5-6% of the home’s sale price, so selling FSBO allows you to retain more of the profit.
• More control over the process – You set the price, negotiate directly with buyers, and manage the timeline.
• Direct communication – Some sellers appreciate being able to personally discuss details with potential buyers rather than going through an intermediary.

Cons:

• Time and effort – Selling a home involves marketing, negotiations, paperwork, and legal requirements that can be overwhelming.
• Limited exposure – Real estate agents use a database called the Multiple Listing Service (MLS), which syndicates home data to public platforms like Zillow, Redfin, etc. Unfortunately, many of these platforms don’t automatically recognize FSBO listings, requiring owners to manually add data to each platform, which is time consuming and often results in  FSBO homes reaching fewer buyers.
• Legal risks – Handling contracts, disclosures, and negotiations without professional guidance increases the risk of mistakes that could lead to financial or legal consequences.
• Emotional challenges – Selling a home is personal, and negotiating directly with buyers can be stressful.

When FSBO Might Be a Good Option

Selling your home by owner may work well if:

• You have experience in real estate or are comfortable handling negotiations and legal paperwork.
• The home is in high demand, and buyers are readily available in your area.
• You already have a buyer lined up, such as a friend, family member, or neighbor.
• You’re looking to maximize profit and are willing to invest the effort into marketing and negotiation.

When FSBO Might Not Be the Best Choice

FSBO may not be the best route if:

• You lack experience with real estate transactions and are unsure about pricing, marketing, or legal requirements.
• The market is slow or competitive, making it harder to attract buyers without professional assistance.
• You need to sell quickly and don’t have the time to manage the selling process yourself.
• Your home has unique challenges, such as necessary repairs or zoning issues, which require expert handling.

Resources for FSBO Sellers

If you decide to sell your home by owner, there are resources available to assist you:

• Flat-fee MLS services – Companies like FSBO.com or Houzeo allow you to list your home on the MLS for a one-time fee, increasing visibility.
• Real estate attorneys – Hiring an attorney can ensure all legal paperwork is properly handled.
• Online valuation tools – Websites like Zillow, Redfin, and Realtor.com can help you estimate your home’s market value.
• Title companies – A title company can assist with closing documents and ensure a smooth transaction.

Final Thoughts

Selling FSBO in Michigan is possible and can be a good option for some homeowners, but it requires effort, knowledge, and careful consideration. If you’re comfortable taking on the responsibilities, it can save you money and give you full control over the process. However, if you want expert guidance, increased exposure, and a smoother experience, working with a real estate agent may be the better choice.

Thinking about selling and buying a new home? Eastbrook Homes is here to help. Our Eastbrook University empowers you with the education you need for the home buying process, and our agents are always ready to answer any questions you may have. Connect with us today to learn more!