<prompt> Human: Hi PF,This post isnt about me, it is about my mother who is 54. She is expecting to sell her home to family friends within the next few weeks expecting an offer by the end of the week. She is shooting for 220-230k low COL area and that is very comparablefair for the area; if it were listed with realtor she would easily list at 245-255. She owes 68k on the mortgage so she should have 150k cash from the sale when it is all said and done. She wants to buy a condosmall home at the beach North Carolina, South Car, etc. She works from home and makes 70k a year, car paid off, no other debt, etc. Her husband is a retired teacher. Question 1 Are there any cons to selling privately without a realtor? I know there will be paperwork, etc that needs done, would you recommend a RE attorney or a realtor with a flat fee to do that part? Also, who takes care of closing costs?Question 2 Im thinking she should get a 15yr mortgage for the beach home and not splash all of that cash on it, right? Maybe 50k for a large down payment but I personally would index fund the rest. Any input is appreciated!  <response>: always have a real estate attorney. 