In Florida, many homeowners choose to sell their property For Sale By Owner (FSBO) to save on realtor commissions. While FSBO transactions can save thousands of dollars, they also come with legal risks. Without the guidance of a real estate attorney, sellers may face contract disputes, disclosure violations, title problems, or even lawsuits after the sale.
At St. Johns Law Group, St. Augustine’s largest and most experienced law firm, we help FSBO sellers confidently manage the legal side of their transactions. From drafting contracts to handling closings, our attorneys ensure that your deal is legally sound, compliant with Florida law, and protects your interests.
Real estate agents focus on marketing and negotiation. Attorneys focus on legal protection and enforceability. In FSBO deals, sellers handle marketing themselves—but they still need professional legal support to:
Draft and review purchase contracts tailored to your property and buyer.
Prepare mandatory Florida disclosure forms and ensure compliance with Johnson v. Davis.
Coordinate closings and escrow funds with title services.
Resolve disputes quickly if the buyer attempts to back out.
Limit liability after the sale to avoid costly litigation.
📌 Related Service: Contract Review & Closing Attorney
We prepare contracts that protect sellers, including clauses addressing:
Earnest money deposits
Inspection and financing contingencies
Timelines for closing
Remedies if the buyer defaults
📌 Explore more: Real Estate Closings & Title Services
Florida law requires sellers to disclose known material defects. FSBO sellers are often at greater risk because they don’t have an agent guiding them. We help you:
Complete disclosure forms correctly
Avoid liability under Johnson v. Davis
Reduce chances of post-sale lawsuits
📌 Learn more: Hidden Defects & Johnson v. Davis
Our attorneys provide full closing and title services at title company prices®, including:
Title searches and curing defects
Title insurance policies for buyers and lenders
Escrow and fund disbursement
Recording deeds and finalizing ownership
📌 See details: Quiet Title Attorney
If the buyer breaches the contract or claims you failed to disclose defects, our litigation team steps in to protect you.
Contract disputes
Boundary or easement issues
Earnest money deposit litigation
Fraud or misrepresentation defense
📌 Explore further: Real Estate Litigation Attorney
One-stop service: contracts, disclosures, closings, title, and litigation if needed.
Local experience: serving St. Johns, Flagler, Duval, Clay, Putnam, and Nassau Counties with deep knowledge of Florida law.
Affordable pricing: closings handled at competitive rates, comparable to title companies.
Full protection: attorney oversight ensures your sale is compliant and defensible.
Can I really sell my home without a realtor in Florida?
Yes, but you must still comply with Florida’s disclosure laws and closing requirements. An attorney ensures compliance while you save on commissions.
Do I need a realtor for MLS access?
Some FSBO sellers use flat-fee MLS services for exposure, while attorneys handle contracts and closings.
How much can I save with FSBO?
Typical realtor commissions are 5–6% of the sale price. On a $400,000 home, FSBO could save $20,000+.
What risks do FSBO sellers face?
Improper contracts, missed disclosures, unanticipated complications, and unresolved title issues can result in post-sale lawsuits.
📞 Call 904.495.0400 or contact us via email at info@sjlawgroup.com.
At St. Johns Law Group, we help FSBO sellers achieve smooth, compliant, and cost-effective sales—while keeping your legal interests fully protected.