Do you think that you all Real Estate Agents have a special degree that enables them to manoeuver through all the red tape and small print? No! Most Real Estate Agents have a basic Real Estate for sale by owner kit. Naturally they have to undergo a basic training - to learn the ropes. After this basic training they become qualified and receive a state license. This is the legal requirement so that scam artists cannot simply claim to be realtors and dip their fingers into your pocket. However if you are selling your own real estate, you can carry out the entire procedure on your own - as you don't NEED to become a legalised middle-man. It's a simple procedure to exchange your property for an agreed price. But there is all that legal-speak and contract stuff to get right - you say. Again I say no! That is what the lawyers are for. They have off the shelf, standard forms that they will fully explain to you. You CAN sell or buy your own real estate without requiring a realtor. Research is the key. Spend a little time researching what similar real estate is selling for in your area and decide the lowest price you are prepared to sell at and the highest price you can reasonably expect. Be very firm with yourself and put emotions aside. Now advertise in the local papers, local stores and on the internet. So what are the 4 keys? 1) RESEARCH local comparable real estate. 2) DETERMINE PRICE and stick to your upper and lower parameters. 3) VISIT LAWYER to draw up contracts 4) ADVERTIZE - everywhere you can think of that a potential buyer might see - local newspapers, supermarkets, social gatherings and coffee shops.