How to Sell Your Lafayette Home by Owner: What FSBO Sellers Should Know

How do you sell your Lafayette home by owner?

To sell your Lafayette home by owner, you’ll need to handle pricing, marketing, showings, negotiations, contracts, and closing without the help of a listing agent. While it’s possible to go FSBO (For Sale By Owner), many sellers discover that hiring a real estate professional like Kirsten Johansson of The Levi Group Brokered by Real can help maximize profits, avoid legal issues, and sell faster.

What Is FSBO and Why Do Lafayette Homeowners Try It?

FSBO stands for "For Sale By Owner"—a method where the homeowner sells the property without using a listing agent. The primary motivation is to save on commission costs, typically 2.5% to 3% of the sale price. In a competitive real estate market like Lafayette, Colorado, it may sound appealing. But selling a home without professional help also comes with risks.

Key Steps to Sell Your Lafayette Home Without a Realtor

1. Research the Lafayette Real Estate Market

Start by studying recent sales in neighborhoods like Waneka Landing, Indian Peaks, and Coal Creek Village. Understanding comparable sales will help you set a realistic price that attracts buyers.

2. Accurately Price Your Home

One of the most common FSBO mistakes is mispricing. If you price too high, your home may sit on the market. Too low, and you leave money on the table. Use online tools or consider paying a real estate professional for a pricing consultation.

3. Get the Home Ready to Show

Curb appeal matters in Lafayette. Clean, stage, declutter, and make necessary repairs. Well-maintained landscaping, a fresh coat of paint, and clean floors can go a long way in making your home stand out.

4. Take High-Quality Photos and Write a Compelling Listing

Professional photography helps capture your home in the best light. Your listing should highlight desirable features—such as proximity to Old Town Lafayette, trail access, updated kitchens, or spacious backyards.

5. Market Aggressively

List your property on Zillow, Craigslist, and FSBO-specific platforms. Consider using a flat-fee MLS service to gain access to the broader Lafayette real estate market. Promote the home on local Facebook groups and Nextdoor.

6. Screen Buyers and Schedule Showings

Require pre-approval letters before showings. Be responsive and professional when coordinating appointments. Hosting open houses is another way to increase visibility.

7. Negotiate Like a Pro

When an offer comes in, review it carefully. FSBO sellers often find negotiations to be one of the hardest parts. Be prepared for counteroffers, inspection objections, and buyer demands.

8. Handle Contracts and Disclosures

Colorado real estate transactions require several legal documents, including seller disclosures and purchase agreements. It’s highly recommended to hire a real estate attorney or transaction coordinator to avoid costly errors.

9. Coordinate the Closing

Once the deal is under contract, you'll need to work with the buyer's agent, title company, and possibly the buyer’s lender to ensure a smooth closing. Be diligent about timelines and contingencies.

Why FSBO in Lafayette Isn’t Always the Best Strategy

While selling by owner might save on commission, FSBO homes often sell for less. A National Association of Realtors study found agent-assisted sales typically result in higher net proceeds. You may also miss out on:

• MLS exposure and marketing reach

• Professional pricing strategy

• Skilled negotiation and inspection handling

• Compliance with legal and contractual requirements

Hybrid FSBO Options With The Levi Group

Not sure if you want full representation? The Levi Group offers hybrid support services for Lafayette FSBO sellers. We can assist with pricing, marketing, contracts, and closing without requiring full commission. You stay in control—but with expert backup.

Final Thoughts: Should You Sell Your Lafayette Home By Owner?

Selling your home by owner in Lafayette is doable—but it takes time, research, and legal know-how. If you’re confident in your ability to manage everything, FSBO might be right for you. But if you want to reduce stress, avoid pitfalls, and potentially make more money, working with a trusted Lafayette real estate professional is worth considering.

Contact Kirsten Johansson of The Levi Group Brokered by Real
📧 kirsten@thelevigroup.net
📞 (603) 583-0151
🌐 www.thelevigroup.net

Your Lafayette Home Selling Experts

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or tax advice. Please consult with licensed professionals regarding your specific situation.