Why More Sellers Are Hiring Real Estate Agents

Why More Sellers Are Hiring Real Estate Agents

Selling your house on your own, also known as "For Sale by Owner" (FSBO), might seem appealing at first. However, in today’s complex market, it’s not as simple as it seems. That’s likely why data from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) shows a record low number of homeowners are choosing this route. Instead, more are opting to work with real estate agents for guidance and expertise (see graph below):

Partnering with a real estate expert is the go-to choice for good reason. While selling your home on your own might seem like a way to save time or money, it often comes with unexpected challenges. 

From setting the right price to navigating extensive legal paperwork and creating a strong marketing strategy to attract buyers, the selling process requires expertise and attention to detail. Without professional guidance, you might find yourself overwhelmed by these responsibilities.

Here are two key reasons why working with a professional can make all the difference in your selling journey.

1. Getting the Price Right

One major challenge of selling a house on your own is determining the right price. It’s more than just choosing a figure that feels right — pricing too high can turn buyers away, while pricing too low might leave you shortchanged or raise concerns about the property’s condition.

Real estate agents excel at accurately pricing homes by analyzing current market trends, comparable properties, and neighborhood data. As Zillow puts it:

“Agents are pros when it comes to pricing properties and have their finger on the pulse of your local market. They understand current buying trends and can provide insight into how your home compares to others for sale nearby.”

Leveraging their expertise in the local market, buyer behavior, and comparable home sales, a real estate agent ensures you set a price that’s competitive and appealing to buyers. By striking this balance, your agent helps position your home strategically to attract interest and maximize your potential for selling at top dollar.

2. Understanding and Managing the Paperwork

Navigating the increasing stack of paperwork involved in selling a home—like disclosure forms and contracts—can be daunting, especially with strict legal requirements. This is where a real estate agent's expertise becomes invaluable. Having handled these documents many times before, they ensure everything is completed accurately and on time. Your agent will walk you through each step, clarify what you’re signing, and help you avoid mistakes that could cause delays or legal complications, making the entire process smoother and less stressful.

Bottom Line

Selling your home is a major milestone, and partnering with a trusted real estate agent can make it seamless and stress-free. Let’s connect to ensure you have expert guidance on everything from setting the right price to handling the details, so you can navigate the process with ease and confidence.