So you want to sell your house on your own ….

So, you’re thinking about taking on the home-selling world solo, huh? Going the "For Sale By Owner" (FSBO) route to pocket those agent fees? I totally get it—saving money is always a win. But before you dive headfirst into the world of FSBO, let's take a minute to peek behind the curtain. Below, I’ve laid out eight reasons why FSBO might not be the breeze you’re hoping for. Don’t worry though, if you're still set on trying it out, I’ve got your back. I've pulled together all the important documents, tips, and resources to help you get through the process smoothly—no strings attached. At the end of the day, my goal is simple: to be your go-to real estate resource here in Puerto Vallarta.

The Must-Have Documents

Not sure where to start with the paperwork? No problem! Shoot me an email at Will.hutt@cblacosta.com, and I’ll send over a list of everything you need to get the ball rolling.

Marketing Your Home

Once your home hits the market, you're not just competing with other homes—you're up against hundreds of PV agents who won’t be jumping to show your property (no commission, no motivation). You’ll need to flex your marketing skills on social media and across various platforms. Pro tip: a large, professional sign with your email and a website is a must (plenty of free website builders can help with this).

Whatever you do, please don’t just slap your phone number on a sign and hope for the best! I’ve seen far too many FSBO signs with nothing but a number, and when buyers call, they either get voicemail or—worse—a promise to “get back to you later.” Buyers aren’t going to wait around, especially in a bustling place like Puerto Vallarta. They need the details: square footage, price per square foot, HOA fees, and yes, make sure to invest in some professional photos.

First Impressions Are Everything

Remember, buyers here are often on a tight schedule. You need to grab their attention quickly. And let me give you one solid tip: buyers have zero vision. So declutter your space, make it shine, and ensure your photos are well-lit and inviting.

Closing the Deal

Congrats—you’ve snagged an offer! In Mexico, it’s called a Promise to Purchase. Once you’ve agreed on the terms, the buyer enters a due diligence phase, reviewing documents and conducting inspections at their expense. After that, escrow is opened, and when contingencies are cleared, the buyer deposits their 10% good faith deposit. You’re on your way to closing!

Now, you’ll be working with the notary to finalize the process. If you can’t make it in person, you can grant someone power of attorney. If you’re in the U.S., this involves a notary and an apostille from your state’s Secretary of State. In Canada, you’ll need to coordinate with the nearest Mexican consulate.

Wrapping Things Up

As closing day approaches, ensure all your property-related bills are current and provide wire instructions for your proceeds. There could be extra costs for canceling your fideicomiso or settling taxes, so be prepared.

The Essential Closing Documents

Here’s a quick checklist of what you’ll need:

- Deed (escritura)

- No Lien Certificate (Certificado Libre de Gravamen)

- Photocopies of IDs for buyer and seller

- Power of Attorney (if needed)

- HOA clearance letter

- Utility bills with no outstanding dues

- Signed Promise Agreement (the offer)

Once you and the buyer meet at the notary’s office, it’s time to sign the paperwork, hand over the keys, and watch the escrow agent release your funds. That’s it—you’re officially done!

After Closing

Make sure you keep copies of the deed and tax statements for your records. Trust me, they’ll come in handy later.

Feeling Like FSBO is a Bit Much?

After reading through all the steps, you might be wondering if doing this solo is really the best idea. That’s where I come in! I can show you how working with a real estate pro can take all the heavy lifting off your plate. Plus, with our in-house attorney and strong local notary connections, we make sure everything runs like clockwork. Oh, and did I mention our marketing program reaches thousands of potential buyers?

8 Reasons to Work with an Agent Instead of Going FSBO

1. Agents Might Not Show FSBO Homes

No commission, no motivation. Why would agents show your FSBO home? If you want them to, you might have to negotiate your own commissions—good luck with that!

2. Agents Keep Emotions Out of It

Selling your home is emotional—it’s your home, after all. Agents keep things professional and help you avoid taking low offers personally.

3. It’s a Full-Time Job

Handling calls, showings, and negotiations is a lot. Do you have time for that? Real estate agents do—it’s literally their job.

4. Agents Have Networks

Sure, you can post on Zillow, but agents have access to a much larger pool of buyers and fellow agents, which can make all the difference.

5. They Weed Out Unqualified Buyers

Agents can sniff out tire-kickers from a mile away, saving you from wasting time on unnecessary showings.

6. Negotiation Skills Matter

Even if you’re good at negotiating, do you have experience negotiating home sales? Agents do. They’ll get you the best deal.

7. You May Overlook Flaws

Agents know what buyers want, and they’ll help you spot and fix areas that need improvement to make your home more appealing.

8. Legal Risks

There’s a ton of paperwork, and missing a disclosure could spell big legal trouble. Agents know the rules and will help you avoid any pitfalls.

Why FSBO Might Not Be the Money-Saver You Think

Let’s face it: selling your home is one of the biggest transactions you’ll ever make, and trying to do it solo might sound appealing at first. But without an agent’s expertise in pricing, marketing, and negotiations, you could end up losing more than you save. And the legal risks? Let’s just say, they’re not worth it. By hiring a pro, you get broader exposure for your property, expert negotiation, and someone who’s got your back when it comes to paperwork and legalities.

So, if you’re starting to feel like FSBO is more trouble than it’s worth, reach out. I’m here to help make the process easy, stress-free, and yes—profitable!

Ready to Talk?

Will Hutt

Coldwell Banker La Costa

Will.hutt@cblacosta.com

+1-239-691-0782