Can I Sell My Home Without a Realtor in Pasadena? May Kunka Explains Your Options
Can I sell my home without a realtor in Pasadena?
Answer:
Yes, you can sell your home without a realtor in Pasadena, but it requires extra preparation, time, and legal awareness. May Kunka shares what to consider if you're thinking about going it alone.
Understanding the For-Sale-by-Owner (FSBO) Route in Pasadena
Selling a home without a realtor—also known as FSBO—is entirely legal in California. Some Pasadena homeowners take this route to avoid paying listing commissions. However, skipping professional support comes with key responsibilities and risks.
In a competitive market like Pasadena’s, where home values are high and buyer expectations are elevated, going solo means you’ll be wearing many hats: marketer, negotiator, legal coordinator, and more.
What You’ll Need to Handle on Your Own
If you decide to skip working with a professional like May Kunka, here’s what you’ll be managing:
Accurate pricing using comparable home sales in Pasadena
Marketing on public platforms like Zillow and Realtor.com
Scheduling showings and conducting open houses
Fielding offers and negotiating directly with buyers or their agents
Managing escrow and closing processes
Ensuring legal compliance, including disclosures and paperwork
Each of these tasks requires time, attention, and—most importantly—local market knowledge.
Pasadena’s Competitive Market: Why It Matters
As of Q2 2025, Pasadena’s median home price sits at approximately $1.2 million, and homes spend an average of 21 days on the market.
In areas like Bungalow Heaven, Madison Heights, or Linda Vista, listings stand out when they are expertly priced, staged, and marketed. Without that finesse, FSBO listings often receive fewer views, lower offers, or extended time on market.
Potential Legal Risks and Disclosure Rules
California has some of the most comprehensive disclosure laws in the country. Whether you work with a realtor or not, you’re still legally obligated to provide:
Transfer Disclosure Statement (TDS)
Natural Hazard Disclosure (NHD)
Lead-based paint disclosure (for homes built before 1978)
Other local and state-specific forms
Mistakes or omissions can result in lawsuits or delays. May Kunka strongly recommends consulting a qualified real estate attorney if you go the FSBO route.
Commission Savings: What You Might Actually Keep
On paper, skipping a listing agent’s 2.5–3% commission seems like a win. But the reality can be different:
Most FSBO sellers still pay a buyer’s agent commission (typically 2.5%)
Without local marketing expertise, your home may sell for less
NAR research (2024) found FSBO homes sold for 12% less on average than agent-assisted homes
In Pasadena’s market, that could mean tens of thousands of dollars lost—even after accounting for commission savings.
When It Might Make Sense to Go FSBO
FSBO might work for you if:
You're selling to a friend or family member
You’ve sold homes before and understand local real estate procedures
Your home is in high demand and requires minimal prep or marketing
Even in these cases, it’s smart to get a professional’s opinion—especially someone who knows Pasadena inside and out.
When It’s Better to Work with a Realtor Like May Kunka
Hiring an agent like May Kunka may be your best move if:
You want to maximize sale price
You’re not confident managing legal documents or negotiations
You’re unfamiliar with Pasadena’s real estate market
You need help coordinating repairs, staging, and inspections
You’re navigating complex scenarios like probate sales or relocation
May’s clients frequently credit her with uncovering hidden value, solving tricky deal issues, and providing a low-stress selling experience.
How May Kunka Helps Pasadena Home Sellers
With years of experience across Pasadena neighborhoods like San Rafael Hills, Chapman Woods, and Hastings Ranch, May Kunka brings deep local insight and a calm, effective approach to every sale.
Her services include:
Detailed pricing strategy based on current comps
Staging recommendations to showcase your home
Professional listing photography
Access to a trusted network of vendors and inspectors
Skilled negotiation and contract support
May doesn’t just list homes—she helps them shine in a competitive market.
Expert Tip: You Don’t Have to Choose One or the Other
You don’t have to decide between FSBO and full-service on day one. Some sellers start FSBO and later hire an agent. Others ask May Kunka for a free home valuation or market consultation before deciding which path to take.
The important thing is making a decision based on information—not assumptions.
Final Thoughts: Weigh Your Options Carefully
Selling your home in Pasadena without a realtor is entirely possible—but it’s not the easiest path.
Think about your priorities:
Are you trying to save money?
Do you have time to manage the sale yourself?
Are you confident in handling complex paperwork and negotiations?
If you’re even slightly unsure, don’t hesitate to reach out to May Kunka. A quick consultation can help you avoid costly missteps and unlock the full potential of your Pasadena home.
Ready to Sell Your Home in Pasadena?
Whether you’re leaning toward FSBO or looking for full-service support, May Kunka is here to help.
📞 Contact May Kunka today for a no-pressure consultation or a personalized home-selling plan tailored to your Pasadena property.