Craigslist, an Internet phenomenon, brings millions of users to its local page to look at the newest deals. Home sellers who are willing to take the risk of listing their property on Craigslist can get more people interested in the home. Craigslist may not hurt but be aware that it is not a home-selling miracle. If you do not hire an agent, then your house may end up being discarded with the other listings. More bonuses?
It’s a problem when sites claim that you can “sell your home without the help of an Agent!” The problem with these sites is that they do not take into account the numerous details that come along with real estate deals. Craigslist can be a great way to find buyers for your property, but negotiating the sale of your home is another matter. Most home buyers can’t handle the minutiae involved in a home sale, especially if they have to juggle work, family and other responsibilities. Agents have more contacts in real estate than the average person and can quickly connect a seller to a buyer.
Will Craigslist replace MLS? It is unlikely. Craigslist’s search capabilities are limited – only the number of bedrooms and bathrooms, as well as specific keyword searches. Keywords don’t help much either in finding the perfect home. You’ll also have to weed through ads that were placed in the wrong category and classifieds that were deliberately put there to attract buyers. Craigslist search parameters should not be compared with the MLS filters and searches that are more comprehensive.
Craigslist, it is true, is wildly popular, and many people use this site. Should you use Craigslist? Craigslist, when used in conjunction with other advertising and the MLS, can be very successful. The post must include good photos, a detailed description and a hyperlink to the MLS. The Craigslist listing should say something like, “For additional information, please visit this link …””.
Craigslist works well for advertising your home, but not as a sole means of advertising. As an alternative to traditional advertising, it’s better used with the help of a competent real estate agent. The use of clear and attractive pictures will help buyers narrow their search to your home.