You don’t need a real estate agent to buy or sell a home in New Brunswick. Plenty of people choose to handle the process themselves, and for the right person, it can be rewarding to take full control of the sale.
Private sales can save you money on agent fees and give you more say in how things unfold. But they also come with extra responsibilities and risks. If you’re thinking about going this route, it’s important to know what’s involved and how to prepare.
A private sale means you’re buying or selling a property without a licensed real estate agent or salesperson. You may choose to do everything yourself, or you might use a private real estate service to help with marketing, paperwork, or negotiations. These services charge a fee, and unlike licensed agents, they aren’t regulated by the Financial and Consumer Services Commission, so there is a degree of added risk.
Working with a licensed real estate agent or salesperson can make the process easier. Many people value their help with:
Deciding if it is a good time to buy or sell
Finding the right home
Negotiating with sellers or buyers
Managing paperwork and legal documents
Avoiding delays or issues during closing
Agents are trained to guide you through each step and are required to follow professional standards. Their services come with a cost, but for some, the convenience and expertise are worth it -- especially if it’s your first time buying or selling.
The most common reason people choose a private sale is to avoid paying agent fees. But there are other benefits too:
More control over pricing and negotiations
Flexibility in how and when you manage the sale
Confidence in your own ability to handle the process
If you have the time, knowledge, and comfort level to manage the details, a private sale may be a good fit.
Buying and selling property can take a lot of time, money and planning. Before deciding to buy or sell privately, ask yourself:
Am I comfortable setting a sale price and negotiating offers?
Do I have the time and money to advertise and show the property to potential buyers?
Have I budgeted for legal fees, closing costs, and other expenses?
Can I manage tasks like scheduling viewings, making or reviewing offers, arranging inspections, and handling the closing process?
Private sales can work well for people who are organized, informed, and ready to take the lead. If you’re unsure, it may be worth speaking with a licensed agent or saleperson to understand what support they can offer.