FSBO in Charm City
Baltimore has a median home price of $290,000–$380,000, with significant variation between the city and surrounding counties (Howard, Anne Arundel, Baltimore County). Maryland's attorney-at-closing custom and transfer tax make Baltimore somewhat more expensive to close than some markets — but the savings vs. full commission are still substantial.
Step 1: Price Using Maryland Data
Maryland's SDAT (State Department of Assessments and Taxation) provides public sale records at sdat.dat.maryland.gov. Use Zillow and Redfin for market timing. Towson, Columbia, and Ellicott City command premiums; Baltimore City proper varies widely by neighborhood.
Step 2: Maryland Disclosure Requirements
Maryland Real Property Code §10-702 requires sellers to complete a Maryland Residential Property Disclosure and Disclaimer Statement. Provide it before or upon contract.
Lead paint disclosure is particularly important in Baltimore — the city has strict lead paint ordinances.
Step 3: Flat Fee MLS on Bright MLS
Baltimore uses Bright MLS (same regional MLS as DC and Philadelphia). Use a flat fee service that covers Bright MLS. Budget $300–$450.
Step 4: Attorney and Transfer Taxes
Maryland doesn't technically require an attorney but attorney closings are standard. Budget $800–$1,200 for attorney fees.
Maryland transfer tax: 0.5% of sale price. County transfer tax varies. On a $340,000 Baltimore County sale: approximately $2,550 combined.
What FSBO Saves You in Baltimore
On a $340,000 home at 5%: