FSBO services put consumers at risk

The recent rise in the number of websites offering “For Sale by Owner” (FSBO) services raises important questions for Victorian property professionals and consumers.

In the current economic climate it is not surprising that some consumers are attracted to the notion of selling their home or investment property. However the FSBO trend – made easier due to the internet and encouraged by websites such as buymyplace.com.au, zeroagents.com.au and many others – represent a false economy.

That’s why we won’t sell RealestateVIEW.com.au subscriptions to anyone who doesn’t have an estate agents license or operating a licensed estate agency.

By not ulitising the professional services of agents, consumers can be left exposed. They are less likely to get the best sale price and face the likelihood of having to spend countless hours doing the work normally done by a REIV member.

The REIV continually works to build public trust and raise the level of professionalism in our industry. We are focused on improving the quality of real estate services to consumers while working with Government and the community to promote equity and access to housing.

The REIV’s motto – “The Standard for Success” – is more than just words. It is a promise to all Victorians that the REIV member they are dealing with is ethical, knowledgeable and expert in selling or buying property.

Together the REIV and RealestateVIEW.com.au provides access to all members with the fastest growing property portal in Australia (Nielsen Net-rating, October 2008), the latest property sales results and information, and the tools agents need to win more listings.