But while people selling their own home say they feel a prisoner, when a broker comes in, the owner is often exiled. At least during the tours. He said it can be difficult for prospective buyers touring a house to speak openly when the owner is there. If the closets are too small, they don't want to say so for fear of causing offense. In addition, some brokers representing buyers are wary to deal with people selling homes on their own, said ERA's Holihan.
Some owners get cocky being in a hot market and jack up prices.
And if you're not priced right, you're not going to sell,'' he said. Julie Gary is selling the Atlanta home she grew up in. But she doesn't live there anymore. Her mother has passed away, leaving the house empty. The problem is that Gary is now living in Huntsville, Ala., so she has to drive down on weekends to show it.