At first glance, selling your home without a real estate agent might sound like an easy way to save money. After all, if you cut out the commission, you keep more of the profit—right? Unfortunately, the reality tells a very different story.
According to Keepingcurrentmatters.com, recent data shows that homes sold with the help of a professional real estate agent consistently sell for significantly more—often tens of thousands of dollars more—than properties sold directly by the owner. In fact, last year, the typical home listed with an agent sold for nearly 15% higher than those sold without one. That’s not just pocket change; for many homeowners, it’s the difference between breaking even and walking away with a real profit.
And in today’s shifting market, where inventory is rising and buyers have more options than they have in years, going the “For Sale By Owner” (FSBO) route could actually cost you far more than you’d ever save on commission fees.
Why the FSBO Approach Worked Before—But Doesn’t Work Now
A few years ago, it was a different story. Homes were flying off the market in a matter of days, bidding wars were the norm, and many buyers were willing to overlook flaws just to get into a property. In that kind of market, some homeowners successfully sold their homes on their own with a simple yard sign and a few cell phone photos.
But that market is gone.
Today, housing inventory is increasing, and buyers are becoming choosier. According to Realtor.com, the number of homes for sale recently reached the highest July level since 2019. That means more competition for sellers, and a greater need to stand out.
When buyers have more options, they scrutinize every detail: price, photos, staging, location, and even the quality of marketing. A poorly priced home with lackluster photos won’t just sit longer—it may sell for less than it’s worth.
More Inventory = More Competition
Selling a home today isn’t as simple as putting a sign in the yard. It requires:
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Accurate pricing strategies based on local market data
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Professional photography and staging to make your home shine online and in person
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Targeted marketing that reaches qualified buyers both locally and nationally
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Strong negotiation skills to protect your profit during inspections and offer reviews
Without these elements, your home could easily get overlooked—especially when buyers are comparing your listing to dozens of similar homes. And the longer your home sits on the market, the more buyers start to wonder, “What’s wrong with it?” That often leads to price reductions and, ultimately, less money in your pocket.
Why More Sellers Are Choosing Agents
It’s no surprise, then, that fewer homeowners are attempting to go it alone. Data from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) shows that the share of FSBO sales has dropped to a record low. And even among the small percentage of people who try to sell their home without an agent, many end up changing course. Zillow reports that about 1 in 5 FSBO sellers eventually hire a professional agent after struggling to attract buyers on their own.
Here’s why working with a local real estate professional pays off:
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Pricing precision: Agents use local market expertise and real-time data to position your home competitively—attracting attention without leaving money on the table.
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Staging and presentation: From furniture placement to lighting, agents know how to highlight a home’s best features and appeal to the widest pool of buyers.
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Professional marketing: This goes far beyond online listings. Agents leverage buyer networks, social media strategies, open houses, and brokerage connections that private sellers simply can’t access.
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Negotiation skills: A seasoned agent knows how to evaluate offers, handle counteroffers, and navigate inspections—all while protecting your bottom line.
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Local knowledge: Every market is unique. A local agent understands what’s selling, what’s not, and what buyers in your neighborhood value most.
Simply put, an agent doesn’t just list your home—they position it for success in a competitive market.
The Bottom Line: Don’t Leave Money on the Table
While it may feel tempting to avoid paying a commission, selling on your own often ends up being the more expensive option. Between mispricing, weak marketing, and limited negotiation power, FSBO sellers risk losing out on thousands—if not tens of thousands—of dollars.
With today’s market conditions, professional guidance isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. The good news? You don’t have to do it alone. By partnering with a trusted real estate agent, you’ll gain an advocate who knows how to position your home, attract the right buyers, and get you the best possible price.
Thinking of Selling? Let’s Talk.
If you’re considering selling your home, don’t gamble with your biggest asset. We’d be happy to provide a professional assessment of your home’s current market value and walk you through a tailored strategy designed to maximize your return.
Contact Marks Realty Group, and let’s make sure you get the strongest possible results when it’s time to sell.
Source: Keepingcurrentmatters.com
