When I started my real estate career in Nashville in 2018, I was 23, broke, and had no connections in my new city. I had just moved to Nashville and didn’t know anyone. I didn’t have a sphere of influence to call. I wanted to succeed, but I didn’t know where to begin. That’s when I discovered For Sale By Owner (FSBO) properties. FSBOs were a game-changer for me—they were homeowners already motivated to sell and all I had to do was show them the value of working with an agent. I knew this was my chance to build a business from scratch.
FSBOs offer incredible potential for agents, but they require the right approach. These homeowners are motivated, but many don’t realize how much time, effort, and risk comes with selling their homes without an agent. I’ve found that FSBOs face a range of challenges:
By focusing on FSBOs, I position myself as the solution to these problems. My goal wasn’t just to get their listing—it was to show them how I could make the process smoother, faster, and ultimately more profitable for them.
I rely on REDX for FSBO leads because it streamlines my process. The platform provides readily available data, saving me the time and effort of sourcing it myself. Plus, the built-in DNC check ensures compliance, allowing me to focus on what I do best: connecting with potential clients.
The results I’ve achieved with FSBOs prove how powerful this lead type can be. Since starting my career, I’ve listed and sold over 160 FSBO homes. One year I even secured 37 appointments from initial calls alone. Many of these transactions closed very quickly which provided me with a steady and reliable income.
Whenever agents ask me for advice about FSBOs, I always tell them the same thing: FSBOs are an incredible opportunity if you approach them with the right mindset and tools. These are people who are raising their hands and saying, “I want to sell my house.” They just don’t see the value in hiring a real estate agent yet. If you can show them that value, there’s no reason you can’t have a ton of success with FSBOs.
It’s not just about the first call; it’s about consistent follow-up, having the confidence to handle objections, and genuinely wanting to help homeowners. FSBOs are motivated to sell, and if you position yourself as the person who can simplify the process and maximize their outcome, they will see the value you bring.