Just one more, yes talk to your Realtor. If he has spent time with you then it would be appropriate for you to talk with him and let him call the FSBO. I have shown several homes that were FSBO and sold 2 of them, none of them ever questioned paying a commission since they would only pay the buyers side, they felt like they were still saving money. Actually they were quite grateful that I even showed their houses! If you've run into an owner who really refuses to pay a Realtor anything, best to let your Realtor discover that then if he truly has your best interests at heart, chances are he'll wish you well! Good luck!
P.S. As a buyer, you do not pay any Realtor fees, only the seller does.

I agree with John. Most FSBO sellers will cooperate with a realtor. The commission is negotiable. Tell your agent and have him talk to the seller.

Dawn,

The answer you received previously was a good one. Be up front with you agent and let him/her approach the seller. Usually the seller will be will to work with the agent -- there really needs to be someone involved who can ensure all the proper legal paperwork is taken care of correctly and that your interests are protected. When buying a FSBO, it's the buyer who stands to lose the most in the transaction, so it's more important for the buyer to be represented than the seller, in my opinion.

If the seller won't work with your agent, then approach the FSBO yourself but please get a good real estate attorney to review any paperwork you are considering signing. Also, you should know that in Kentucky, if there's any termite damage discovered upon inspection, the seller is legally bound to take care of that damage under state real estate regulations. Other repairs you may want the seller to make are negotiable, but please do have an inspection regardless of whether you work with a realtor or not -- it's critical.

Good luck!

Sharon Roark

I would tell your agent and let them approach the seller. Most FSBO are willing to work with a realtor at 2.5 -5% commission... I have not met one yet that I could not get to take a fdeal from one of my clients.

HAve your realtor approach te seller.. if that does not work out.. then go yourself.

Where in Kentucky? I have a friend that has a house for sale....... email me.

John Sacktig
Broker Sales Associate
Orange Key Realty
732-213-1409