Maybe you’re moving across town. Maybe you just inherited a property that’s seen better days and aren’t sure what to do with it. Whatever the reason, if you’re thinking about selling a house in Dallas, it helps to have a clear plan.
This home-selling checklist walks you through what to expect when working with a real estate agent, how to handle a sale on your own, steps to get your property ready for market, and why choosing a direct home buyer like We Buy Ugly Houses® can be a smart solution.
Working with a real estate agent
A traditional home sale often starts by finding the right agent. Here’s what to expect:
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Choose your agent carefully. Look for someone with a good reputation and knowledge of the Dallas area. You can look at their past sales and read client testimonials before signing a contract.
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Understand your agreement. Before moving forward with a real estate agent, review the commission fees and listing contract. Most agreements last 3–6 months, and agent fees vary by state.
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Team up to sell your home. Most agents will help you:
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Set a competitive price
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List your home on the MLS
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Arrange photography and open houses
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Manage buyer requests and handle contingencies
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Working with an agent can add professional support, but it also involves fees and may take longer than other options. Choose someone you trust who understands the Dallas real estate market.
Selling FSBO (for sale by owner)
If you're handling the sale yourself, you’ll be responsible for everything from pricing to closing. Be prepared to:
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Research comparable sales in Dallas to determine a strong listing price
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Take photos yourself or hire a photographer
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Advertise the property online and use signs and flyers
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Host showings and coordinate walkthroughs
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Negotiate offers and review purchase contracts
Selling FSBO can cut out agent fees, but it also means more time, effort, and responsibility.
Getting your house ready to sell
Whether you go with an agent or sell FSBO, preparing your property can make a big difference in attracting buyers.
Declutter and clean thoroughly.
Remove personal belongings and clean every room. A clean space helps buyers picture themselves living there.
Handle repairs.
Patch holes, touch up paint, and repair leaks. Even small fixes can improve first impressions.
Boost curb appeal.
Mow the lawn, repaint doors, and power-wash walkways. Curb appeal matters in competitive markets like Dallas.
Stage your house.
Keep the decor open and welcoming. Make sure each room has a purpose and flows well.
Consider a pre-sale inspection.
Spot potential issues early to avoid surprises during negotiations.
Depersonalize and deodorize.
A neutral-smelling, clutter-free home lets buyers focus on the space itself.
Store valuables securely.
Keep important items out of sight during showings.
Know disclosure laws.
Texas requires sellers to disclose known defects, such as foundation issues, mold, or pest damage.
Your selling options in Dallas
There’s no one right way to sell a house. The best approach depends on your goals and situation.
Traditional sale with a real estate agent
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Pros: More eyes on your listing, expert support, potential for stronger offers.
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Cons: Commission fees, longer sale timeline, repair and prep costs.
Selling FSBO
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Pros: No agent fees, full control over the process.
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Cons: Time-consuming, requires legal and marketing knowledge.
Selling to an off-market home buyer in Dallas
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Pros: Quick closing, sell “as is,” no repairs or showings needed.
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Cons: Offer may be under market value.
Auctioning your home
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Pros: Defined timeline, competitive bidding may increase sale price.
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Cons: Final sale amount isn’t guaranteed; auction fees apply.
What to consider when choosing a selling method
Think about your timeline, your house’s condition, and your comfort level with managing the sale.
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Need to move quickly? Off-market buyers and auctions might work best.
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Don’t want to fix anything? Traditional buyers may expect updates, while off-market buyers purchase homes “as is.”
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Looking for top dollar? Listing on the open market may help—but it can take longer.
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Concerned about paperwork? A real estate agent or attorney can guide you through the legal steps.
Sell your house fast “as is” with We Buy Ugly Houses® in Dallas
If you’re looking for a quick, no-stress way to sell a house in Dallas, We Buy Ugly Houses® can help.
We buy houses “as is,” which means no cleaning, no repairs, and no showings. We don’t charge commissions, and we cover typical closing costs.†
We may even be able to make an offer the same day we visit and can sometimes close in as little as 3 weeks.
We Buy Ugly Houses® has been buying houses across the U.S. for over 25 years and has earned a 95%* nationwide customer satisfaction rating.
Our local property buyers in Dallas are here and ready to help. Reach out today to learn more—no obligation, no pressure.
This blog is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice.
