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yOwner.com, now under new ownership, is positioning itself as a cost‑effective alternative for sellers who prefer a do‑it‑yourself or flat‑fee approach. The company’s “your lead” system, combined with an in‑house brokerage, aims to capture the 6 % of U.S. home sales that go through the FSBO channel, according to the National Association of Realtors.
Co‑owners Derek Eisenberg and Colby Sambrotto, who acquired the site in 2023, are expanding the platform’s reach. They recently launched a Regulation Crowdfunding (RegCF) round to fuel growth. “FSBO is a niche that still holds value,” says Eisenberg. “We’re giving sellers a better, cheaper path to sell their homes.”
Sambrotto, formerly a co‑owner of ForSaleByOwner.com before its sale to Quicken, describes the business as “really sexy” once you understand its mechanics. He notes that FSBO sites often lack a brokerage arm, but ByOwner’s brokerage operates in 46 states and Washington, D.C., with plans to add Oklahoma, Wisconsin, Oregon, and Montana by year‑end. The brokerage is a member of every relevant MLS board in those markets, providing a seamless transition for sellers who move beyond pure FSBO.
The platform’s pricing structure reflects its value proposition. Sellers can list on MLS for $195 or choose a non‑MLS option for $95, saving up to 95 % on traditional listing fees. ByOwner agents are not commission‑based, allowing the company to keep costs low while still offering professional support. Eisenberg explains that many sellers start with pure FSBO, then shift to a flat‑fee or discounted MLS model. If that fails—often due to pricing issues—they can be referred to a local agent through ByOwner’s network.
ByOwner’s strategy is built on three pillars. First, the brokerage provides a full service for sellers who need more than a listing. Second, the “your lead” model mirrors early versions of Homes.com and Realtor.com, giving sellers direct access to leads while offering Realtors the ability to showcase their IDX listings before they’re sold to third‑party platforms. Third, the brand itself is flexible, allowing the company to branch into rentals, commercial properties, automobiles, and boats.
The rental side has already attracted significant interest. While sales listings remain the primary driver, Sambrotto reports a growing number of prospective tenants engaging with the platform over the past year. The company’s future plans include expanding into commercial real estate and other asset classes, further diversifying its service offerings.
ByOwner.com’s combination of a nationwide brokerage, a low‑cost FSBO model, and a versatile brand positions it as a compelling choice for sellers who want to avoid traditional commissions while still accessing professional support and MLS exposure.
