How to Sell a House By Owner in Maryland (2026 Update)

17% of FSBO sellers struggle with pricing, while 10% are stuck on paperwork. But the biggest roadblock for FSBO sellers isn’t pricing or paperwork; it’s invisibility.

Homes on the MLS sell for 17.5% more than those not on the MLS. But FSBO listings aren’t on the MLS. Without MLS exposure, a successful sale is almost impossible. No wonder FSBO listings dropped to an all-time low of just 5% in 2025.

Houzeo, Maryland’s #1 FSBO website, solves all three issues without the 3% commission. With the Gold plan, you get maximum MLS exposure, pricing assistance, and contract review, all 100% online.

Points to Remember Before Selling a House in Maryland

Median Home Price in Maryland	$442,400 (Dec 2025)
Average Days on the Market	51 (Dec 2025)
Homes for Sale	19,232 Homes (Dec 2025)
Required Disclosures in Maryland	Radon gas (mandatory in Montgomery County), roof leaks, mold, electrical defects, Resale Certificate, code violations, Disclosure and Disclaimer Statement, coastal erosion, etc.
Required Essential Documents in Maryland	Property Deed, Purchase Agreement, Closing Statement, Mortgage Payoff Statement, Title Report, HOA Documents, Property Tax Statement, Seller’s Affidavit, Property Survey, etc.

What Does Selling a House By Owner in Maryland Mean?

Selling a house by owner in Maryland means you manage the entire sale without a real estate agent. This approach, known as For Sale By Owner (FSBO), gives you full control and allows you to eliminate the listing agent’s fee.

But increased control comes with trade-offs: less exposure and more work. When you sell FSBO, your home won’t be on the MLS. It will be invisible to the 88% of buyers who use an agent to find their dream homes. You’ll also have to handle marketing, negotiations, and contracts all by yourself.

How to Sell a House Without a Realtor in Maryland?

In Maryland, the process to sell your home without a Realtor is divided into two main phases:

• Listing Prep: You must price your home accurately, complete crucial repairs, and handle all required Maryland disclosures.
• Marketing & Negotiations: After listing, your attention should be on execution. Market your property, manage showings, negotiate offers, and sell your home successfully.

Maryland overall experiences a resilient housing market, anchored by a dual-engine economy of specialized life sciences professionals in the I-270 ‘DNA Alley’ and the stable healthcare and research hubs of the Baltimore metro. To successfully sell your home by owner in this dynamic environment, follow these 8 steps:

1: Price Your Home Competitively
2: Check Maintenance and Make Repairs
3: Fill the Disclosure Forms
4: Make Your Home Market-Ready
5: Increase Your Property’s Visibility
6: Organize Home Showings
7: Review, Compare, and Negotiate Offers
8: Finalize the Sale

Step 1: Price Your Home Competitively

Pricing your home correctly is the single most important decision you’ll make as an FSBO seller. In Maryland, the median days on market is 51, up 12 days from last year, and 22.6% of homes have seen price drops—an increase of 1.6 points—giving buyers more power.

Your goal is to set a price that attracts them without leaving money on the table. A CMA report is your shortcut to accurate pricing, and you can get it for free with Houzeo’s Gold plan!

Compare Your Home to Recent Sales

The best way to start is with real estate comps, i.e., recently sold homes in your immediate area that are similar to yours. Don’t just look at list prices; focus on final sale prices. Here’s how you can compare your home:

• Get Your Facts in Order: Identify your property type (single-family, condo, townhouse, etc.), heated living area, bed/bath count, lot size, and school zone.
• Find Similar Properties: Look for 3 to 6 homes that have sold within the last 6 months. They should be as similar to your property as possible and located within a 0.25 to 1.0-mile radius. Only expand this radius if local inventory is extremely low.
• Account for Key Features: Adjust the value of your comps based on factors like:
  • Trex deck
  • Mean Low Water
  • Roof age and material (critical for insurance)
  • Energy Star Triple-Pane Windows
  • Updated kitchens and bathrooms

Understand Your Local Market

To price your home effectively, you must analyze your specific metro area and neighborhood. What works in Baltimore may not necessarily work in Frederick. Here’s a snapshot of the Maryland housing market:

Location	Median Sale Price	Year-on-Year Change	Days on Market	Market Tempo
Cumberland	$157,500	+43.2%	63	Somewhat competitive.
Salisbury	$238,000	-4.2%	61	Somewhat competitive.
Bowie	$485,500	-9.02%	42	Very competitive.
Ellicott City	$709,310	+9.2%	57	Very competitive.

Your pricing strategy must reflect the trends in your specific housing market:

• In “somewhat competitive” cities like Cumberland and Salisbury, you can price near the middle of your CMA range to capture early buyer traffic.
• In “very competitive” areas like Bowie and Ellicott City, list slightly above your CMA midpoint to generate buyer activity.

Consider Unique Features and Upgrades

Adjust your price to reflect your home’s condition and appeal in the Maryland market. A move-in-ready home with a high-wind-rated roof or a high-efficiency HVAC system can justify a premium price.

On the other hand, properties with structural flaws, mold, or deferred maintenance, as well as those located outside highly-rated school districts or that lack proximity to major transit corridors, should be priced lower.

Other Factors to Account For

• Flood Zones and Insurance: A buyer will check your flood zone. If your home is in a high-risk area, the insurance will be expensive. Check your property on the FEMA Flood Map Service Center and account for it in your asking price.
• Property Taxes: Your current tax bill likely benefits from the Maryland Homestead Tax Credit, which caps assessment increases. A new owner’s tax bill will eventually be taxed on the full market value of the home. Be upfront about this so buyers can accurately calculate their total monthly payment.
• Condo/HOA Disclosures: In Maryland, buyers have a mandatory review period to go over the association’s documents: 7 days for a condominium and 5 days for an HOA. If the association has low financial reserves or an upcoming special assessment, it can scare buyers away. So, price your home accordingly.

👉 Tired of Reading? Watch how to sell your home by owner now

Step 2: Check Maintenance and Make Repairs

If you’re selling a home by owner, a pre-listing home inspection helps you catch issues early and keeps your sale on track. The goal is to identify and fix issues that could stop a buyer from getting an insurance policy or a loan.

Which Home Repairs Have the Highest ROI?

Repair	Average Cost	Average Resale Value	Costs Recouped
Garage Door Replacement	$4,501	$15,152	337%
Entry Door Replacement – Steel	$2,684	$5,900	220%
Manufactured Stone Veneer	$13,251	$26,598	201%
Siding Replacement – Fiber Cement	$25,666	$25,475	99%
Minor Kitchen Remodel – Midrange	$31,212	$33,456	107%
Backup Power Generator	$15,652	$13,675	87%

What Issues Should You Fix Before You Sell Your Home in Maryland?

• Water, Moisture, and Mold: Maryland’s humid climate demands proactive moisture control. Under Md. Code § 10-702, you are legally required to disclose any ‘latent defects’ that the buyer cannot see during a normal walk-through.
• Septic and Well Systems: In Maryland, a septic system inspection for property transfer must be performed by an MDE-licensed professional. Having maintenance records and a clean report can be a major selling point.
• Condo-Specific Issues: Focus on unit-level problems that can stall a loan, such as corroded balcony railings, leaky AC drains, or old electrical panels. Be aware of any building-wide repairs as they will come up during the buyer’s underwriting process.

What are the Common Problems Found in Maryland Homes?

In Maryland, closings are most often blocked by these issues:

• Grading & Slope Issues: Maryland’s clay-heavy soil is prone to expanding when wet. If the land isn’t graded away from the house, hydrostatic pressure can cause foundational cracks.
• Moisture Damage: In Maryland, sellers must watch out for ice damming. In winter, snow melts and refreezes at the roof edge, forcing water up the shingles or behind the siding.
• Roof Materials: Maryland shingles freeze and grow. With the granule loss from heavy snow, the moss traps moisture against the shingles, causing them to rot.
• Plumbing and Electrical Systems: Older homes in Maryland might have polybutylene plumbing and galvanized steel pipes. Since they are prone to corrosion, sellers may need to update them. Sellers may also need to update from Knob and Tube wiring, as many Maryland insurers may flatly refuse to cover a home with active Knob and Tube wiring.
• HVAC Systems: In Maryland, the HVAC system is critical both during summer and winter. Not to mention, the compressor takes a beating from salt and from the physical stress of switching between heating and cooling modes.

Step 3: Fill the Disclosure Forms

In Maryland, there is a mandatory, all-in-one seller disclosure form called the Maryland Residential Property Disclosure and Disclaimer Statement. Under Maryland Real Property Code § 10-702, a seller must provide the document to the buyer before the document is signed.

Additionally, federal and Maryland disclosure laws require you to provide buyers with several specific notices. If you fail to provide these disclosures, the buyer has a legal right to cancel the contract. With Houzeo’s Gold plan, you get all disclosures automatically assigned based on your MLS.

1. Property Tax & Deferred Water/Sewer Disclosure: In Maryland, sellers must comply with Maryland Real Property Code § 14-117 regarding private assessments. You are legally required to disclose whether the property is subject to Deferred Water and Sewer Charges. Failure to disclose before the contract is signed gives the buyer the right to rescind the agreement
2. Radon Gas Warning: You must disclose any known radon test results. This disclosure informs the buyer of the potential health risks and recommends that they have the property tested. In fact, you are legally mandated to test for radon in Montgomery County. This is a strict requirement for single-family homes and townhomes.
3. HOA Resale Package: If the home is in a mandatory HOA, you must provide the buyer with an HOA-specific disclosure summary before they execute the contract. It explains all HOA rules and fees. If the buyer does not receive the package before signing the contract, they will have 5 days to cancel the contract after receiving it.
4. Condominium & Cooperative Resales: You must provide the condo’s governing documents, like the declaration, bylaws, and the most recent financial report. The buyer then has 7 days to cancel the contract, if they wish to.
5. Critical Area Disclosure: If the property is located within the Chesapeake and Atlantic Coastal Bays Critical Area, Maryland law requires a specific disclosure. This informs the buyer that the property is subject to strict environmental regulations that limit land disturbance, tree removal, and new construction to protect the Bay’s water quality.

Step 4: Make Your Home Market-Ready

A well-staged home can help buyers see its full potential. In fact, 83% of buyers’ agents say home staging influences buyers’ decisions, so make your home pop before you list it.

Here’s what you can do to make your home market-ready:

• Declutter and Depersonalize: Clear out personal items and unnecessary furniture. A clean and neutral space helps buyers picture themselves living there.
• Improve Curb Appeal: Maryland’s variable climate means buyers are looking for a “turnkey” exterior that can withstand the elements. Plant native Eastern redbud trees, repair any damage on the walkways, and ensure that the gutters can handle the heavy spring rain.
• Highlight Weather Resilience Features: In Maryland’s unpredictable climate, buyers often look for storm preparedness. Showcase backup sump pumps and house surge protectors, and ensure your roof shows no storm damage from sudden weather changes.
• Opt for a Professional Home Stager: Bring in home staging companies to give your place a polished look. They place your furniture and decor strategically to create a more spacious appeal. This can boost your value by up to 10%.

What Safety Aspects Should You Focus on When Staging Your Home?

Along with the aesthetics of your home, you should also:

• Install Required Alarms: Maryland Public Safety § 9-101 requires 10-year sealed lithium battery smoke alarms (with “hush” features) on every level. For homes built after 2013, alarms must be inside every bedroom. Carbon monoxide alarms must be placed outside every sleeping area and on every level if the home uses fuel-burning appliances or has an attached garage.
• Secure Your Pool: All residential pools with a water depth of 18–24 inches must have a 4-foot barrier. However, local rules are stricter in Montgomery County and Prince George’s County, as they require a 5-foot and 6-foot fence, respectively. All gates must be self-closing and self-latching, with latches typically 54 inches above the ground.
• Flood Risk & Elevation: Under MD Real Property § 10-716, you must provide a formal Flood Risk Disclosure. As part of this, you must state if the home is in a 100-year or 500-year floodplain, disclosing any past flood insurance claims, and noting if the property has ever received federal flood-related disaster assistance.

Step 5: Increase Your Property’s Visibility

Selling a house in Maryland without proper marketing is like trying to sell a waterfront home without mentioning the Chesapeake Bay view. In a competitive market, you’ve got to showcase what makes your property stand out, or it’ll just get lost in the crowd:

• List on Your Local MLS: Get your property on the MLS for extra exposure. It will also be syndicated to major sites like Zillow, Trulia, Realtor.com, etc. You can list your home on the MLS in Maryland to attract more local agents and buyers searching for that perfect home.
• Hire a Pro Photographer: Listings with professional photos sell 50% faster on the MLS as they elevate the appeal of your property. 85% of buyers say that high-quality photos entice them as they browse properties online.
• Craft a Compelling Description: Highlight what makes your home unique, whether it’s a perfect basement, hardwood floors, or proximity to Metro stations. Focus on what makes the Maryland lifestyle appealing and paint a picture of how buyers will enjoy living in your home.
• Put a “For Sale” Yard Sign: Whether you’re in a bustling Federal Hill neighborhood or near a waterfront community on the Eastern Shore, a well-placed FSBO yard sign can attract potential buyers. And Houzeo’s Gold plan gives you a customizable sign with a QR code. Just one scan will send buyers directly to your list.

Step 6: Manage Property Tours

Listing your home on the MLS gets attention, but showings and open houses seal the deal. Buyers can’t picture life in the Free State without experiencing the morning mist or feeling the autumn breeze. Here’s how to highlight your home’s best features:

• Host Open Houses: Almost 50% of all buyers attend open houses. In fact, open houses can double your home’s visibility! Plan them during weekends to highlight covered patios, fireplaces, or Blue Ridge Mountain views. Create a relaxed atmosphere for buyers to explore, ask questions, and envision living there.
• Set up a Showings Calendar: Many buyers browsing homes for sale in Maryland prefer to schedule private showings online. Simplify this process with an online booking system like Houzeo Showings. Offer flexible times and virtual tours or live video showings for out-of-state buyers.

After a showing, reach out to the buyer within 24 to 48 hours. You can answer questions, gauge interest, and remind them about upcoming offer deadlines. You can also ask buyers for their honest opinions and make repairs or adjust the pricing as needed.

Step 7: Review, Compare, and Negotiate Offers

Maryland’s competitive real estate market means buyers may come with different types of offers. Since you are selling a house without a Realtor, you must keep these questions in mind during negotiations:

• Are cash offers worth it? Ensure the buyer is legitimate and verify their proof of funds. It’s also important to assess whether the offer reflects the fair market value of the property to avoid underselling.
• Can the buyer finance the purchase? Verify the buyer’s pre-approval status with their lender. Also, ensure the buyer’s loan type, whether it’s a VA or FHA loan, aligns with the conditions of the sale. Confirm the buyer’s ability to deposit the earnest money, typically 1% to 2% of the sale price in Maryland.
• How will contingencies impact the sale? In Maryland, contingencies such as inspections (Radon, Termite, Septic) and statutory resale reviews (HOA/Condo) act as “safety valves” that allow a buyer to cancel a contract and keep their deposit. For properties in flood-prone areas, a Flood Risk Disclosure is now required under HB 200, which may prompt buyers to include insurance or elevation contingencies. Typically, offers with fewer or waived contingencies are stronger.
• Who will cover closing costs? Sellers usually cover their own closing costs in Maryland, like commissions, HOA resale certificate, etc. However, buyers may negotiate for them to contribute more. You must calculate your final proceeds and negotiate accordingly. One must also note that in Maryland, Transfer & Recordation Taxes are customarily split 50/50 between the buyer and seller.

Step 8: Finalize the Sale

You now need professional legal help for this crucial step:

1. Select Your Closing Agent

In Maryland, a title company, closing attorney, or licensed escrow agent typically handles the closing. Most FSBO sellers opt for a title company to manage the paperwork, handle funds, and file documents with the relevant government agencies.

The title company will also perform a title search to ensure the house has a clear title. They will identify and work with you to clear any outstanding issues, such as open permits, contractor liens, HOA/condo association debts, etc.

2. Get All Documents Required for Selling Your Home By Owner in Maryland

Gather all necessary paperwork for selling a house by owner ahead of time to prevent delays. You will need:

• Fully Executed Contract of Sale.
• Maryland Residential Property Disclosure and Disclaimer Statement
• A valid photo ID (Driver’s License or Passport) for everyone on the title.
• Deed & Title Information
• Mortgage Payoff Letter
• Final Utility and Tax Bills
• Keys and access codes for the property.
• Most recent property tax bill and any required tax documents, like an IRS Form 1099-S.
• Lead-Based Paint Disclosure
• Maryland Transfer Tax & Recordation Forms
• Withholding Exemption Certificate
• Conservation Easements / Critical Area Disclosures
• FIRPTA Affidavit

At the closing table, you will need to sign the following key documents:

• Special Warranty Deed
• The Closing Disclosure: Required under TRID for all financed transactions to detail costs.
• Maryland Land Instrument Intake Sheet
• Affidavit of Ownership
• A Bill of Sale for any personal property included in the sale.
• HOA/Condo “Paid Assessment” Letter
• MW506NRS (For Non-Residents)

🖊️ Remember to double-check all names, figures, and terms for accuracy before signing. It is customary to sign legal documents with a blue ink pen.

3. Transfer Possession and Hand Over the Keys

At closing, you will hand over all keys, remotes, and access codes to the new owner. The title company will record the new deed with the county clerk. It will then disburse the funds, pay off any liens, and provide you with your net proceeds via wire transfer or a check.

Congratulations, you’ve sold your home by owner and saved thousands in commissions 🎉!

📌 Free FSBO Checklist for Selling Your Maryland Home

How Much Do You Save By Selling Your Home By Owner?

Over $11,000!

When you sell your house with a Realtor, you may have to pay as much as $13,272 on a median home of $442,400, in agent commissions.

However, with Houzeo, you can list your home for just $249—that’s less than a day at a theme park. You can save around $11,022 on the listing agent fee and go for a luxury Chesapeake Bay sailing charter, buy a pontoon boat, or renovate your basement.

👉 Ready to Sell Your Home By Owner in Maryland? List on the MLS Now!

What Are the Legal Requirements for Selling Your Maryland Home By Owner?

When selling your home by owner, disclose all known issues and use state-approved contracts that meet legal standards. A pre-listing inspection and real estate attorney can help ensure transparency, proper documentation, and a smooth closing with a valid deed transfer.

• Complete Required Seller Disclosures: Maryland law mandates sellers to disclose any known issues affecting the property. This includes past repairs, environmental hazards, structural problems, and lien information.
• Use State-Specific Contracts: Use Maryland-specific real estate contracts, such as those provided by the Maryland Realtors Association. The forms should comply with state law and outline essential terms and contingencies.
• Consider a Pre-Listing Home Inspection: Although optional, a pre-listing inspection reveals property conditions upfront, helping you disclose issues and negotiate with informed buyers.
• Engage a Real Estate Attorney: While not mandatory, a Maryland real estate attorney can help you review contracts, prepare closing documents, and ensure legal compliance throughout the selling process.
• Understand Deed Requirements: Maryland recognizes several deed types, including statutory warranty deeds and special warranty deeds, which transfer ownership. Deeds must be properly signed, notarized, and include a legal property description to be valid.

Effective Negotiation Strategies When Selling a Home By Owner

When reviewing and negotiating offers, verify buyers’ financial readiness through proof of funds or pre-approval letters. Evaluate contingencies, pricing flexibility, and closing terms carefully to choose the most reliable and favorable offer and not just the highest one.

• Verify Cash Offers: Always request recent proof of funds (bank or investment statements) to confirm that a cash buyer can actually finance the sale.
• Confirm Buyer Financing: Ask for pre-approval letters from lenders to ensure buyers are fully qualified. Understand how different loan types (conventional, VA, or FHA loan) affect sale terms.
• Handle Contingencies Smartly: Buyers may request contingencies like home inspection or financing. Evaluate how these impact your timeline and negotiate which contingencies are reasonable versus those that could delay or derail the sale.
• Be Firm Yet Flexible: Stand your ground on pricing based on your market analysis but stay open to reasonable negotiation requests. Consider who will pay closing costs and the timing to make your offer more attractive.
• Look Beyond Price: Assess offers holistically, factoring in buyer qualifications, contingencies, and closing flexibility, not just the offer amount.

What Are Some Pros and Cons of Selling a House Without a Realtor?

The benefits of selling your home yourself include keeping the agent’s commission and controlling the whole process: pricing, showings, and negotiation. You move on your schedule, not an agent’s.

But you’re responsible for all marketing and legal work, and if you don’t use a trusted service for exposure, you risk attracting scammers or facing hidden fees.

✅ Pros

• Save Thousands: You typically have to pay 2.5% to 3% to a listing agent. If you sell your home yourself, you get to keep a larger portion of the sale price.
• Sell Faster: You can list your house yourself whenever you are ready, no need to search for a Realtor or wait for their availability. You market and sell on your own schedule. 
• Retain Control: You have complete control to price, market, and negotiate the sale. You can work at your own pace and decide what offers to accept based on your needs.

❌ Cons

• Limited Assistance: To sell a home by owner, you need to conduct showings, negotiate with buyers, and handle the legalities yourself. The time and effort required can often overwhelm first-time sellers.
• Potential Hidden Costs: If you list with a low-cost FSBO service, you may incur high hidden fees at closing.
• Increased Risk of Scams: Platforms like Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace attract fraudsters and scammers, which may bring unnecessary risks.

What Are Some Common Mistakes to Avoid While Selling a House By Owner in Maryland?

When you sell your home by owner, ensure that you don’t:

• Forget the MLS: If you try selling your home without the MLS, it’s like fishing in a lake without a rod. To get more visibility on 100+ major platforms like Zillow, Trulia, and Realtor.com, you must opt for a Flat Fee MLS listing in Maryland with Houzeo.
• Misprice Your Home: You need to know your property’s true value. Price it too high and buyers won’t bite. Price it low and you leave money on the table. Use a home worth calculator and a CMA report to find the right price.
• Ignore Marketing: A home on sale without strong marketing is like the Inner Harbor without boats. In Maryland’s fiercely competitive market, high-quality photos and a well-written description are essential. You can add a free yard sign to reach drive-by traffic.
• Neglect Seller Disclosures: Skip any of the legal forms or the Maryland seller disclosure form, and you’ll be in a pickle soon. Ensure you complete all required disclosures and hire a Maryland real estate attorney to help with the process.
• Fail to Negotiate Smartly: When a buyer makes a low offer, don’t fold. Hold firm on your price and terms. Buyers will test you—respond with the resolve of a Ravens linebacker defender.

How to Sell a House By Owner in Neighboring States

Pennsylvania	Sell a House By Owner in Pennsylvania
Delaware	Sell a House By Owner in Delaware
West Virginia	Sell a House By Owner in West Virginia
Virginia	Sell a House By Owner in Virginia

Are There Any Alternatives to Selling Your Home By Owner in Maryland?

If selling your home on your own is too daunting, here are some alternatives you can consider:

• Flat Fee MLS Services: You pay a fixed fee to list your home on the MLS and gain increased exposure. You stay in control of the sale and avoid high commissions.
• Discount Real Estate Agents: They offer services such as contract review at a lower fee than traditional agents. Discount brokers in Maryland charge between 0.5% and 2.5% as commission.
• Full Service Agents: They provide various services from listing to closing, but charge a hefty 5% to 6% commission.
• Cash Buyers: You can sell your house fast for cash in Maryland to cash buyers and iBuyers looking for homes to flip and sell for a profit.

Should I Sell My House By Owner in Maryland?

Yes, selling your house by owner in Maryland is a smart move if you want to save on commissions. The key is to choose the best FSBO website in Maryland that lists your home on the MLS and gets you in front of serious buyers.

» Houzeo Reviews: Find out what customers have to say about Houzeo – Maryland’s best home-selling website.