Why Selling Your Home Without a Real Estate Agent Could Cost You Big

A lot of homeowners think selling their house without an agent will save them money. On the surface, it makes sense… you cut out the commission, you keep more profit, right?

But here’s the reality: homes sold with a real estate agent typically sell for up to 15% more than For Sale By Owner (FSBO) homes. That difference adds up fast and often ends up costing sellers more than they ever expected.

Why FSBO Doesn’t Work Like It Used To

A few years ago, you could stick a “For Sale By Owner” sign in the yard and expect multiple offers in days. Buyers were competing hard, and houses were flying off the market.

But today’s housing market is different. Inventory is rising, buyers have more options, and they’re being pickier about where they put their money. According to Realtor.com, this past July saw the highest number of homes for sale since 2019.

That means your home isn’t just competing with one or two others, it’s up against dozens of listings. And if your price, photos, or marketing don’t stack up, buyers will simply move on.

More Inventory = More Competition

Selling a house today takes more than a yard sign and cell phone photos. It takes:

• A smart pricing strategy that attracts buyers without leaving money on the table

• Professional marketing and staging that make your home stand out online

• Negotiation expertise to protect you during offers and inspections

• Local market knowledge to understand what buyers in your area are really looking for

Without these, you could easily undersell your home or worse, have it sit on the market and lose value.

Why More Sellers Are Choosing Agents

The numbers speak for themselves: fewer homeowners are selling without an agent than ever before. In fact, Zillow reports that 21% of FSBO sellers eventually hired an agent anyway after struggling to get their home sold.

That’s because agents bring more than just paperwork. They bring the strategy, network, and experience that helps you:

• Maximize your home’s value

• Reach more qualified buyers

• Sell faster and with less stress

Don’t Leave Money on the Table

If you’re thinking about selling your house, now isn’t the time to go DIY. With more homes on the market and more selective buyers, working with a local real estate expert isn’t just helpful, it’s essential.

💡 Want to know what your house could sell for in today’s market? Let’s connect.

I’ll give you a professional, no-obligation assessment so you can make the best move for your future.