![Image of a front lawn with a "For Sale By Owner" sign](https://www.bankrate.com/2022/05/12113748/Homes_What-is-FSBO_.jpg?auto=webp&fit=crop&width=230&height=150)
FSBO meaning: For sale by owner, explained
Depending on whom you ask, the FSBO model can either save money or cost you even more.
Hire a real estate attorney for any home sale or purchase, even if your state doesn’t require you to. The contracts are complex, and the stakes are high — it’s worth the extra cost to make sure everything is legally buttoned-down.
— Michele Petry
About the author
Michele Petry is a senior editor for Bankrate, leading the site’s real estate content since January 2022. Before joining Bankrate she was a writer and editor for StreetEasy, Zillow’s New York City real estate site. Before that, she amassed 20 years of experience on staff at national magazines, honing her skills editing home-based content at House Beautiful, Elle Decor and Veranda (among other titles). Michele earned her journalism degree from Syracuse University’s Newhouse School of Public Communications and is a member of the Society for Advancing Business Editing and Writing (SABEW). She lives in Manhattan.
Hire a real estate attorney for any home sale or purchase, even if your state doesn’t require you to. The contracts are complex, and the stakes are high — it’s worth the extra cost to make sure everything is legally buttoned-down.
— Michele Petry
Depending on whom you ask, the FSBO model can either save money or cost you even more.
When a home is for sale, an open house can bring in as many potential buyers as possible.
Counter-offers are a key part of the real estate negotiation process.
Should you buy a home? Or keep renting? We weigh the pros and cons of each.
Selling a home is complicated enough without having to worry about a lien. Here’s what to know.
Selling a home is complicated enough without having to worry about a lien. Here’s what to know.
Buying land is different than buying a house.
Buying land is different than buying a house.
An architect’s services are crucial for building a new home, or renovating an existing one. Learn how architectural fees work.
Looking to put down roots in Vegas? You’re not alone — here’s how to buy a home in this growing market.
This sales strategy allows multiple agents to market your home in an attempt to find a buyer.
This now-defunct reverse-mortgage program was backed by Fannie Mae.
This form of housing discrimination involves an agent guiding a client toward a particular area based on legally protected characteristics.
This legal principle entitles someone else to take over land that you own — but only if they meet a complex set of requirements.
The principle of eminent domain allows governments to take over private property for public use. It’s a complicated and often controversial topic.
As the housing market boom slows down, some economists are predicting dramatic drops in home prices. Others aren’t so sure.