Why Realtors outperform FSBO’s
Selling your home is a big deal! In the age of online listings and DIY resources, you might wonder: “Do I really need a realtor?”
While it’s possible to go the FSBO (For Sale By Owner) route, most homeowners discover that working with a professional realtor delivers better results.
Here’s why partnering with a realtor is a smart move:
1. Higher Sale Price
According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), homes sold with the help of a realtor consistently sell for more than FSBO listings.
- “In 2024, 90% of home sellers sold their home with the assistance of a real estate agent, up slightly from 89% the previous year.”
- “Only 6% were FSBO sales. The share of FSBO sellers was a historical low.”
2. Maximum Market Exposure
Realtors list your home on the Multiple Listing Service (MLS), which feeds into syndicated sites like Zillow, Redfin, and Realtor.com. They also leverage:
- Professional photography & staging
- Social media marketing
- Email campaigns
- Open houses & networking with other agents
More exposure = more interested buyers = better offers.
3. Accurate Pricing
Overpricing your home can scare off buyers. Underpricing can leave money on the table. Realtors use market data, comps, and local trends to help you price your home competitively—and confidently.
4. Experienced Negotiators
Real estate transactions involve multiple rounds of negotiation: price, inspections, repairs, credits, timelines, and more. Realtors are trained negotiators with the highest fiduciary responsibilities legally who advocate for your best interest.
5. Legal Protection & Paperwork
Selling a home involves disclosure, legal contracts, contingencies, and timelines that may not be followed precisely. The realtor contracts are well proven and help ensure:
- Many performance and contingencies are considered in CAR purchase contracts
- Local and state disclosure laws are followed reducing liability
- Deadlines are met to avoid delays or penalties
This minimizes your risk of costly mistakes.
6. Saves You Time & Stress
Selling a home isn’t just about putting up a “For Sale” sign. It’s about:
- Handling inquiries and showing requests
- Vetting buyers
- Coordinating inspections and appraisals
- Managing the escrow process
When you go FSBO, all of this falls on you. A realtor handles the process so you can focus on your next chapter.
7. Serious Buyer Interest
Buyers’ agents often hesitate to show FSBO homes, knowing they’ll have to do double the work or worry about unclear terms. With a professional realtor, your listing will be taken more seriously and presented professionally.
- Buyers with realtors representing them are more likely to be qualified retail shoppers
8. Support Even After the Sale
Realtors don’t disappear after an offer is accepted. They guide you through:
- Escrow
- Appraisals and inspections
- Closing timelines
- Final walkthroughs
- Any hiccups along the way
This end-to-end support ensures your sale stays on track.
While selling FSBO might seem like a good way to save on commission, most sellers actually lose money in the long run—due to lower offers, pricing errors, missed marketing opportunities, and legal risk.
Working with a realtor gives you:
- A higher likelihood of a faster sale
- More money in your pocket
- Fewer headaches from start to finish
Thinking of selling? I’d love to show you how the right strategy can make all the difference.
