Selling a home without a real estate agent—commonly known as for sale by owner (FSBO)—can save you money on commission fees. Still, it requires a solid understanding of Florida’s real estate laws, contract terms, and a pile of required paperwork. If you’re asking, “What paperwork do I need to sell my house without a realtor in Tampa?”, you’ve come to the right place.
This guide outlines the essential documents, legal forms, and disclosures you’ll need to prepare for a compliant and successful real estate transaction in 2025. From deeds to disclosures, we’ll walk you through what every Tampa home seller should have in order to maintain transparency and maximize profit.
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Key Takeaways
- Tampa FSBO sellers must gather key documents such as the property deed, real estate contract, property disclosure, and title insurance to stay compliant.
- You’ll need to disclose hazards like lead paint, asbestos, or termite damage, and prepare utility records, home inspection results, and capital gains tax info.
- Even without a real estate agent, involving a lawyer ensures that your real estate transaction meets Florida law standards and reduces risk.
- Documents like a bill of sale, HOA paperwork, and market analysis can strengthen your listing and improve negotiation power.
- Managing your advertising, list price, and contract terms gives you more control and potentially higher profit, but it also requires careful attention to legal paperwork and disclosure obligations.
Why Selling Without a Realtor Matters
Choosing to sell without a real estate agent lets you control your advertising, list price, photography, and negotiation process. You’ll be in charge of every step—from handling the real estate contract to preparing your home for market analysis, digital marketing, and working directly with home buyers.
But with greater control comes greater responsibility, especially when it comes to ensuring your paperwork is accurate, legally sound, and compliant with Florida law and tax regulations.
Required Paperwork to Sell a House Without a Realtor in Tampa
1. Property Deed
The deed proves ownership and requires the legal transfer of the property to the buyer. Depending on the terms of the sale price and contract, a warranty deed or bill of sale is typically used.
2. Property Disclosure Form
Florida law requires home sellers to disclose any known issues that could impact the value, condition, or safety of the property, such as:
- Roof leaks or replacement history
- Presence of lead paint, asbestos, radon, or termite activity
- Flood, utility, or electrical system problems
- Hazardous paint, construction, or outdated kitchen features
3. Sales Contract or Purchase and Sale Agreement
This legally binding real estate contract outlines the sale price, closing date, mortgage or cash payment method, and any contingencies, including inspection, financing, or loan approval.
You can use a version from The Florida Bar or have a lawyer draft a customized one. Include details about any home warranty, curb appeal upgrades, or additional fees.
4. Lead-Based Paint Disclosure
Required by federal law for homes built before 1978. This informs home buyers of any known lead paint and includes receipt of educational materials.
5. Title Search and Title Insurance
A title search ensures there are no existing liens, ownership disputes, or prior lawsuit claims on the property. Title insurance protects the buyer and lender from future legal risks. Work with a company licensed in Tampa.
6. Bill of Sale
Outlines all personal items included in the sale, such as appliances, fixtures, lawn equipment, or photography gear, and assigns them a value. Include this in the document package to avoid disputes.
7. Home Inspection Report
Although not required by law, a home inspection ordered early in the process reveals issues that might affect the market value, loan approval, or future sales.
- Request checks for termite, radon, asbestos, and structural problems
- Consider hiring an appraiser to determine fair market value
8. HOA Documents (If Applicable)
If the property is in a homeowner association, you’ll need to disclose the rules, regulations, and fee structures and provide recent meeting records or compliance receipts.
9. Utility and Repair Records
Organize receipts, warranties, or service records for roof, HVAC, electrical, or plumbing repairs. Include utility statements and insurance history.
10. Tax Forms and Transfer Costs
Prepare property tax records, capital gains tax info, and Florida’s transfer tax (documentary stamp tax) paperwork. You may also need documentation for any capital gain or investment-related income from the sale.
Optional Documents to Strengthen Your Sale
- Market analysis or MLS data to back up your list price
- Home warranty offers or insurance policy transfer options
- Company invoices for improvements that add value
- Database of buyer inquiries or digital marketing performance
Why You Still Need a Lawyer
Even without a realtor, a lawyer is critical to:
- Validate legal documents, including real estate contracts and deeds
- Review your ownership, title, and lien status
- Avoid costly mistakes during refinancing, foreclosure, or probate situations
- Ensure compliance with income tax rules and the Florida Bar requirements
Frequently Asked Questions
What paperwork is legally required to sell a house without a realtor in Tampa?
You’ll need a property deed, purchase and sale agreement, property disclosure, title search, and a lead-based paint disclosure (if the house was built before 1978).
Do I need a lawyer to sell my house FSBO in Tampa?
While not legally required, a lawyer is highly recommended to help with the contract, verify ownership, and handle legal documents like the deed and lien releases.
What documents help build buyer trust when selling without an agent?
Providing a recent home inspection, utility receipts, repair history, insurance records, and HOA compliance shows transparency and boosts buyer confidence.
How do I handle capital gains tax paperwork?
To ensure compliance with income tax reporting requirements, you’ll need to gather property tax records, calculate your capital gain, and possibly consult a lawyer or tax professional.
Can I still list on MLS without a realtor?
Yes. Many sellers use flat-fee listing services to access Multiple Listing Service data and enhance advertising reach even when selling without a traditional real estate agent.
Final Thoughts
Selling your Tampa home without a real estate agent gives you control, but it demands attention to detail, legal compliance, and excellent paperwork management. From contract negotiation to verifying your insurance, loan, and tax obligations, everything must be documented clearly.
If you’re serious about a cash offer, working with cash home buyers, or leveraging your equity for a smart investment, having your documents, disclosures, and title insurance ready is non-negotiable.
Need help preparing the right paperwork to sell your house FSBO? Reach out to us for a complete checklist, legal review, or to get a cash offer today, backed by Tampa home buyers who know the process inside and out.