10 hacks when owners sell their homes

1. Cracking the smell of house with essential oil on HVAC filter

You don’t need expensive candles or overwhelming plugins to make your house smell amazing during the show. Subtle tips used by some top real estate agents? Apply a few drops of essential oil (think lavender, lemon, or eucalyptus) directly to your home’s air filter.

As the HVAC system runs, the scent circulates throughout the house, creating a clean spa, an atmosphere that is not artificial. This is a low-priced way to make your home more attractive without paying attention to the fact that you are doing it.

For prompts: Avoid anything too strong or polarized (no broadcast or rich flowers) and make sure the filter is clean before applying oil. And don’t jump directly to the “fresh cookies in the oven” tip. This may make some buyers think you are trying to hide a scent.

“learn more: How to make a dog smell

2. Use free Google Voice Numbers only in the FSBO list

Selling FSBO means your phone number may be on signing, online advertising and listing sites, which opens the door for spam, Robocalls and unwanted messages. To protect your privacy and keep it organized, build a free Google Voice number dedicated to your home sale.

Using Google Voice you can:

• Answer the previous screen call
• Keep your personal phone number away from the internet
• Get protection from spam calls and messages
• Set up custom voicemail for buyer query
• Forward text and voicemail for normal phones
• Read voice transcripts in your inbox and search them like email

This is a simple step that can make the management process feel more professional and much less confusing.

“learn more: How to set up Google Voice

3. Create a free property website – add video walkthrough

FSBO listings often have a chance to impress – the basic photos on the universal listing pages are not always cut down on it. To double your efforts, create a simple standalone web page for your properties.

Free tools like Google Websites, Canva, Carrd, or Wix can easily build a clean, mobile-friendly page:

• Powerful titles and introductions
• A photo library
• Your list description
• Contact form or Google Voice number
• Quick video walkthrough (even if taken on your phone)

This gives your home its own spotlight and makes your marketing look even more beautiful, which builds trust with buyers and helps you stand out among other FSBO sellers in your area.

“learn more: List of the best free website builders for PC magazine

4. Place the QR code on the logo and flyer linked to your list

Many FSBO signs and flyers stopped phone numbers. However, if someone is driving at your home or flying to want to know more now, don’t let them enter the URL or call you right away. Use QR code to give them a simple next step.

Use free tools like QR Code Monkey or Canva’s QR Code Generator to create codes that directly link to your property website or online listings. Then, use weatherproof materials, such as laminated plug-ins or stickers, to insert it into your logo and insert it into your logo, then insert it into the flyer.

Why it works: QR code turns casual curiosity into instant participation. They also make you look organized and tech-savvy, which can increase buyer confidence.

“learn more: 9 creative ways to sell a home

5. Borrow better furniture, or use the stage you discover on Facebook Marketplace

Buyers are not only looking at your square foot; they are trying to imagine living in your space. If your furniture is outdated, bulky, or mismatched, it may quietly defy you.

Instead of thinking about engaging in a professional stage bounce, consider borrowing from a stylish friend or family for a few weeks (or long enough to take indoor marketing photos). Another low-cost option is to source some key items from Facebook Marketplace (such as cleaning-lined coffee tables or neutral bedding) and relist them after sale.

You don’t have to stage every room – even if you just refresh the living room, the master bedroom will have a clear impact on how your home is presented online and in person.

“learn more: Get on the house on budget and let the buyer wow

6. Use FedEx or UPS store notarization documents

Without an agent, you will be responsible for managing contracts, disclosures and paperwork. Depending on the buyer’s schedule, this could mean finding a notary or printer quickly.

Rather than scrambling to find an open banking or mobile notary, remember that many FedEx offices and UPS stores have walk-in notarization services. FedEx and Staples even offer online notarization services. These and other companies can also scan, print or copy whatever you need to end up with a deal.

Reward tips: Keep the flash drive or folder using the home’s key documents (investigation, past utility bills, remodel invoices, warranty) so you can quickly answer buyer questions.

“learn more: Real estate lawyers who need CLOs in some statesSing

7. Install smart locks or lock boxes to simplify display

A performance coordinated with a buyer agent can be one of the biggest headaches in selling FSBOs. Don’t consider installing a temporary smart lock or real estate-grade password box instead of constantly rescheduling schedules or rushing home to open the door.

With smart locks, you can assign temporary codes and track entries from your phone. Manual locking boxes (as used by list agents) enables you to provide access safely without on-site access. Just be sure to review potential buyers and their agents before accessing access – require ID and pre-approved letters or proof of funds.

This FSBO tip can give you more flexibility and peace of mind, especially when you are juggling, kids, or moves outside.

“learn more: How many shows are needed to sell a house

8. Provide buyers’ revitalization, not only price reduction

Discounted prices aren’t the only way you can trade with sugar. In fact, small incentives can make your home more attractive without shrinking the net gain. Some FSBO sellers offer:

• Providing temporary mortgage rates for buyers’ first few years.
• Prepare the buyer’s homeowner’s insurance or HOA dues for one year.
• Provide credit for moving fees or arrange and pay for professional porters.
• Provide credit or prepayment of utility bills for the first few months to mitigate the transition.
• Cash credit is provided to buyers when closed for renovation or upgrade.
• Extend home warranty to make buyers more at ease.
• Provides allowance for new appliances or furniture.
• Agree to leave ideal items such as a pool table, spa or terrace.
• Provide beautification allowance or pay for professional beautification services.
• Prepay a portion of the upcoming property tax or provide credit to offset them.
• Offers prepaid home services such as professional home cleaning or carpet cleaning.
• Schedule the installation of a smart home, security system or subscription.

“learn more: What are the discounts for real estate?

9. Use AI tools to polish your list description

Even if writing isn’t your business, your copy of your list doesn’t have to sound amateur. With free tools like Chatgpt, Gemini, or Canva’s Magic Write, you can generate powerful first drafts of your home description; just feed the main features of your property. Then, take a few minutes to add human touch: adjust the tone, avoid all hats, and make sure the wording is tailored to the unique features of your home.

Remember that a good list copy is not only about selling, but also about setting expectations, so your buyer inquiries are more serious and more qualified.

“learn more: How to write a creative real estate list description

10. Skip open days and offer private travel only

Open houses may feel like a must, but for FSBO sellers, they can put more pressure than the results. You will get a lot of Lookie-loos, neighbors, and maybe even a jurisdictional agent, but not necessarily a qualified buyer.

Instead, you may offer private side access. This will create a more personalized experience and allow you to review your interests ahead of time. You will have more control over who walks through your home and reduce the risk of safety issues.

“learn more: Is an open house really worth it?

Last thoughts on our home sales FSBO tips

Selling a home without an agent requires effort, but it doesn’t have to feel like guesswork. These FSBO tips can give you a leg where it really matters: make your home more attractive, keep things safe and professional, and simplify the experience from start to finish.

If you decide you want to back up, Homelight’s free agent matching platform connects you with top agents who know how to quickly complete deals and more money. Whether you stick with FSBO or bring in reinforcements, we want you to perform the best in home sales.

“learn more: FSBO Statistics: Can you save money from owners selling?

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Title image source: (Gautam Krishnan/Unsplash)