What selling privately involves
You set the asking price, obtain and verify documents, prepare images and listing copy, respond to enquiries, organise viewings and negotiate. Later, buyer financing, contract draft, notary appointment and handover need coordination. Some specialist tasks can be outsourced even when you manage the sale yourself.
When each route might suit
A private sale can work if you have time, know the property and documents well and want to manage buyer conversations yourself. Professional support may help when pricing is unclear, documents are missing, the property is rented or you do not wish to conduct viewings and negotiation. The decision depends on your situation, not a universal rule.
Discuss cost and responsibilities first
Selling privately avoids an agent's fee but takes your time and may still incur costs for documents, presentation and expert help. With an agent, agree the services and commission terms before signing. Our free initial discussion is separate from any sale instruction; you keep the final decision on whether, when and to whom to sell.
Property sale checklist: what to clarify before listing · How to set an asking price for your property