Transacting Privately? Know the Risks.
Private sales are increasing, but removing the agent from the open market increases your individual risk.
More Risk, Same Emotion.
Before you take the agent out of the mix to save a commission, realize what you are giving up. You are removing the professional “guardrails” of the transaction.
The dependence on emotion does not go away just because it’s a private sale. In fact, without a professional buffer, emotional decisions often lead to larger financial mistakes.
There is precedent for parties taking advantage of others’ lack of market knowledge and the lack of competition. A realistic and credible assessment is your only defense.
My Role: Advisor, Not Salesperson
In a private sale, I am not here to “list” the home or “sell” it to the public. My role changes completely.
I act as an Advisor. I use the Broker Price Opinion (BPO) as a tool to deliver accuracy—checking market conditions, alternatives, value assessments, repair needs, and after-repair potential—so you can transact fairly.
Common Off-Market Transactions
These are the two most frequent scenarios where having an independent valuation is critical.
Landlord-to-Tenant Sales
Tenants are often given “first dibs” to purchase a property before the owner lists it. For the tenant: Are you paying market value? For the landlord: Are you leaving money on the table by not testing the open market?
Unsolicited Offers
Investors frequently contact owners of distressed properties offering “fast cash.” These offers are often significantly below market value. A BPO verifies if the “convenience” of a cash offer is worth the discount they are demanding.
💡 Did You Know?
Most agents are able to complete transaction-only sales.
This significantly lowers the cost of the agent because you have already found the buyer or seller. Hiring an agent for the transaction phase ensures:
- The agent can securely hold the earnest money deposit in escrow.
- The transaction is completed strictly based on your specific agreement.
- The process remains fully compliant with federal, state, and local laws.