Seattle By Owner News

Hi All--

This Blog is dedicated to the news and events related to the Residential For Sale by Owner (FSBO) market in the greater Seattle area.

The first topic will explore myth and facts in the FSBO market in Seattle and nationally.

The first issue to raise is the TRUE percentage of FSBO homes for sale.

The National Association of Realtors is clearly fearful of the growing trend in FSBO sales. You only have to look at the national television campaign to see this.

Then there's Century 21. They have FSBO fear campaigns that are comical. Check back as I will post a link to some of these ads that most consumers can see right through.

I have yet to hear any realtor or realtor trade association or anyone in the brokerage side of the business publically admit what is obvious- more people are selling FSBO than ever before, and the percentage is higher than ever before.

I will post FACTS to support this claim of a growing FSBO trend so please check back.

There is also a huge increase in the Flat-Fee MLS listings which typically charge $500 to $1000 for listing on the MLS instead of the "standard" 6% commission.

The internet has spawned this trend as well as the increase in housing prices.

SO...let's have your guesses for TRUE FSBO percentage of homes for sale in the Greater Seattle Market...let's say King, Pierce, and Snohomish County only.

I'll do the research and provide my methodoly in the next post so check back. Give me one week or so..

My guess is 10%. This would be for TRUE FSBO- not on the MLS at all.

I'll guess another 2% for Flat-Fee MLS.