In today’s economic climate, every dollar saved matters. With rising costs affecting everything from groceries, gas, and home prices, it’s no surprise that homebuyers are looking for ways to cut costs, including skipping the realtor.

Nowadays, realtor commissions can fluctuate a bit, but generally run close to 5%. On a $250,000 home, that could cost you $12,500 or more. Not only do NHC’s low home prices help you save money on newly-constructed properties, but you can also save some extra cash by not using a realtor. With more buyers exploring how to buy a home without a realtor, it’s clear that taking control of the transaction is becoming a popular choice. 

This guide will walk you through researching properties, understanding market trends, how to manage the paperwork, and closing the deal. And at National Home Corporation (NHC), we make it easier with our transparent pricing and streamlined financing options that don’t require an agent.

What Are the Pros and Cons of Buying a Home Without a Realtor?

Many homebuyers are drawn to the idea of saving money and having more control over the process, while others feel uncertain about the challenges and responsibilities that come with going solo. Here are the most notable pros and cons so you can decide if this route is right for you:

Pros:

• Save on Commissions: By handling the transaction yourself, you can save the fees that typically go to the agent.
• Direct Communication with Sellers: You get to speak directly with the sellers, making negotiations faster and clearer.
• More Control Over the Process: You set your own schedule, do your own research, and make offers on your own terms.

Cons:

• Lack of Expert Guidance: Without a realtor to help guide you through the process, you may miss critical information in legal documents. This can make you pay even more for the home than you budgeted for.
• Legal Knowledge and Complex Negotiations: Realtors are skilled negotiators who have dedicated years to understanding the complexities of real estate markets. They know how to get you the best price for your home, and without one, you may pay more than intended. 
• More Legwork and Responsibilities: You will be responsible for scheduling house tours, organizing paperwork, and conducting all market research. 

Key Responsibilities to Buy a Home Without a Realtor

Taking on the role of both homebuyer and agent is no small feat, but it’s absolutely doable with the right mindset and preparation. Below are the primary responsibilities you’ll need to manage when buying a home without a realtor:

• Market Research: Understanding local pricing, market trends, and neighborhood insights is critical. Use tools like Zillow Research, Realtor.com, Market Reports, and Redfin Data Center to get up-to-date information. Also, check local government websites for neighborhood development plans that could impact property values.
• Scheduling Showings: Contact sellers directly to arrange property tours, and be sure to prepare a checklist of things to inspect during showings. If you’re not sure what to look for, check out the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development's Home Inspection Checklist for guidance on inspecting homes effectively.
• Negotiating with Sellers: Crafting and submitting offers, managing counteroffers, and discussing terms are all on you.
• Coordinating Inspections: Make sure to hire qualified inspectors to ensure the property is in good condition. Websites like HomeAdvisor and Angi (formerly Angie’s List) can help you find trusted inspectors in your area. Additionally, make sure the inspector is certified by the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) for credibility.
• Managing Paperwork: Draft purchase agreements, review contracts, and secure financing. Make sure to understand the paperwork for buying a house without a realtor, as this is crucial to avoiding mistakes.

How to Buy a Home Without a Realtor: Step-by-Step

Now that you understand the responsibilities, benefits, and downsides of buying a home without a realtor, it’s time to understand the exact steps you’ll need to take to do it yourself.

Step 1: Get Pre-approved for a Mortgage 

Before you even start to tour neighborhoods and homes, secure pre-approval from a lender. This will help you understand your budget and what homes you should tour that are within that budget. At NHC, we offer homes that start within the $180s with only $1000 down required, helping you ignore the stress of buying a home without a realtor. You can also use our mortgage calculator for an easy understanding of what your future home payments will look like. 

Step 2: Search for Neighborhoods You Like

You probably have an idea of the cities or states you’re looking to move to, but narrowing it down to specific neighborhoods helps you get a better idea of the community you’ll be moving into as well. 

Hoping for a quiet area? Make sure to stay away from communities that have plans to expand roads, build apartments, or have multiple vacant land plots, as these can attract loud noises and more people. Or, maybe you want the hustle and bustle of city life combined with small-town charm in a community. No matter what you prefer in a neighborhood, NHC has communities built for everyone to feel comfortable and fulfilled.

Step 3: Find a Property

This part of the homebuyer journey can be the most fun. Start by driving through the neighborhoods on your list and seeing what is for sale, or use a tool like Zillow to help you stay on the right path for your budget. 

Research comparable homes that were recently sold in the area, also known as real estate comps, to see a realistic figure of what the home could cost. How long a home has been on the market and whether homes are selling above/below the listed price will help you gauge competition in the area.

You can make that process a lot smoother by going to NHC’s website, where we have all our available listings up-to-date with pricing information, square footage, and all other home details readily available for you. For example, take a look at the Monroe floor plan in our newly available Callahan Bayou Community in Clyde, TX.

Step 4: Ask for a Seller’s Disclosure

Anyone who is selling their home must disclose any issues with it, such as remodeling and repairs, as well as any state-specific requirements. Some common disclosures include:

• Deaths in the Home
• Hazards Like Asbestos 
• Neighborhood Nuances
• Water or Environmental Damages
• Items the Homeowner Will Take With Them Out of the Home
• Homeowners Association Information

When you’re working through how to buy a home without a realtor, the simple choice is to go through the journey with a builder like NHC that makes the process easy.

Step 5: Make an Offer and Negotiate 

This is a critical step to buying a home without a realtor, as this can determine how much you’re going to pay for your home without someone who knows the market like the back of their hand. Once your offer is accepted and both parties have signed, you are now in a legally binding contract. For this reason, it is often recommended that you obtain a real estate lawyer during this process. 

It is also important to include any contingencies you want to agree on with the seller before the deal is closed. You should also specify any seller concessions you’re requesting, include a copy of your pre-approval letter, and clearly outline important dates such as your expected closing date and anticipated move-in date.

Step 6: Secure Financing, Complete a Home Inspection, and Appraisal 

Once you and the seller agree on the purchase price, it’s time to lock in your interest rate and start the mortgage application process. To make this step as smooth as possible, NHC offers competitive rates starting as low as 5.99%, designed to help you finance your new home with ease. 

Getting your documents organized early can really speed things along—be prepared to gather everything from proof of income to tax records, and don’t be surprised if your lender asks for additional documentation along the way.

While most lenders are more concerned with the appraisal, you should still place utmost importance on the home inspection. A thorough inspection can reveal both minor fixes and major issues that could affect the value of the home.

A quality home inspector should evaluate:

• Electrical Systems
• Plumbing Systems
• HVAC 
• Roofing
• Foundation Security 

Step 7: Finalize the Mortgage and Close the Deal

At this final stage, you will receive the closing disclosure documents to review. If you hired an attorney, they will also review this with you and advise you on the next steps. You will more than likely have to work with a title company, but this can vary from state to state.

Once an offer is accepted, you’ll then likely need to prepare a check or wire transfer for an earnest money deposit. The good news? With NHC, you are only required to put $1000 down on your new home!

When Buying a Home Without a Realtor Makes Sense

There are specific scenarios where buying a home without a realtor can be more efficient and cost-effective:

• Private Sales: If you’re purchasing a home from family or friends, or in off-market deals, skipping the realtor can save both parties money.
• New Construction: Working directly with builders, like those at NHC, eliminates middlemen, streamlines the process, and offers transparent pricing.
• FSBO Listings (For Sale By Owner): These homes are sold directly by the owner, making it easier for you to negotiate terms without added fees.

How NHC Supports Independent Buyers

Learning how to buy a home without a realtor can be complex and hard to understand. With NHC, we help independent buyers like you get the keys to a new home in your hands with ease. 

Whether you’re a first-time home buyer or a family looking to move to a new community, buying a home without a realtor through NHC can start your homeownership journey with the confidence of knowing you’re supported by America’s Affordable Builder.

Ready to take the next step? Contact us today to learn more about financing options, mortgage rates, and available homes. 

FAQ’s

Can I Buy a House Without a Realtor in Florida? 

Yes, you can buy a house without a realtor in Florida. This can save you from spending money on agent fees, but it does have some risks involved.

Is it Safe to Buy a House Without a Realtor? 

While it is considered safe, you will want to mitigate as many risks involved with not using a realtor as you can. Learning how to buy a home without a realtor requires a lot of research and often the use of a real estate attorney.