How To Sell A House By Owner In California
Steps to Sell a House by Owner in California (FSBO)
Selling a house by owner in California, also known as a For Sale By Owner (FSBO) transaction, can help homeowners save on realtor commissions, but it requires careful planning and execution. To start, sellers should determine the fair market value of their home by researching comparable sales, getting a professional appraisal, or using online valuation tools. Properly marketing the property is crucial, which includes high-quality photos, a compelling listing description, and advertising on top real estate platforms. However, FSBO sellers should be prepared for the challenges of handling negotiations, disclosures, and legal paperwork on their own. For a faster and hassle-free sale, many FSBO sellers choose to work with real estate investors or cash buyers who purchase homes as-is. This eliminates the need for costly repairs, staging, and prolonged negotiations. Selling directly to a cash buyer in California also means avoiding lender delays, appraisal issues, and buyer financing fall-throughs. Homeowners looking for a quick, commission-free sale can request a no-obligation cash offer from a professional home-buying company, closing in as little as 7 days. Whether listing FSBO on the open market or selling to an investor, understanding California’s disclosure laws, escrow process, and tax implications is essential for a smooth transaction.
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Step 1: Decide Your Selling Strategy and Goals
Step 1A: Determine Your Priorities
Do you want a fast, no-hassle sale or maximum price?
Are you willing to do repairs, showings, and paperwork?
Step 1B: Choose How to Sell
✅ Cash Buyer (best for speed and simplicity)
🏡 Direct-to-buyer FSBO (traditional)
📢 Use flat-fee MLS services to gain exposure while avoiding full agent commissions
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Step 2: Set a Competitive Asking Price
Step 2A: Research Local Market Values
Use Zillow, Redfin, Realtor.com, or sold listings in your area.
Step 2B: Consider a Professional Appraisal or Broker Price Opinion (BPO)
Helps avoid overpricing or leaving money on the table.
Cash Buyer Tip: Many cash buyers will make offers based on as-is condition, not top-of-market pricing.
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Step 3: Prepare the Property (or Sell As-Is)
✅ Option 1: Sell As-Is to a Cash Buyer
No cleaning, no staging, no repairs
Perfect for inherited homes, rentals, or distressed properties
🧹 Option 2: Make Repairs or Clean for Showings
May help you get a higher price but requires time and money
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Step 4: Take Quality Photos and Create a Listing
Write a compelling description highlighting key features
Use your phone or hire a real estate photographer
Post your listing on:
Zillow
Craigslist
Facebook Marketplace
FSBO.com
Optional: Flat-Fee MLS listing to reach more buyers
Cash Buyer Shortcut: Skip listings entirely—reach out to local cash buyers like Sell Quick California and request a direct offer.
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Step 5: Handle Inquiries and Showings
Respond promptly to buyers
Schedule and host showings
Provide flyers and fact sheets
Cash Buyer Advantage:
Usually no showings required
May buy sight unseen or with minimal inspection
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Step 6: Review and Negotiate Offers
Step 6A: Compare Offers
Look at price, contingencies, closing date, and financing type
All-cash offers typically mean faster closings and fewer risks
Step 6B: Counter or Accept
You can negotiate directly, or hire a real estate attorney for assistance
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Step 7: Open Escrow with a Title Company
Choose a California escrow and title company
Provide:
Purchase agreement
Property disclosures
Buyer’s earnest deposit
Cash Buyer Benefit: No loan process = faster, smoother closing
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Step 8: Complete Required California Disclosures
Transfer Disclosure Statement (TDS)
Natural Hazard Disclosure (NHD)
Lead-Based Paint Disclosure (if built before 1978)
Mello-Roos (if applicable)
Cash Buyers may waive certain inspections or contingencies but disclosures are still required by law.
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Step 9: Close the Sale
Escrow finalizes:
Title transfer
Payoffs (e.g., mortgage, liens)
Seller receives funds
Sign all documents (in person or remotely) and hand over the keys
Cash Buyer Benefit: Close in as little as 7–14 days and avoid fees, delays, and financing fall-throughs.
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Step 10: Notify the County and Cancel Insurance/Utilities
File the change of ownership with the County Assessor's Office
Cancel homeowner’s insurance and utilities after escrow closes