Why More Sellers Are Hiring Real Estate Agents

Why More Sellers Are Hiring Real Estate Agents

Selling your home on your own, commonly known as "For Sale by Owner" (FSBO), might seem appealing. However, it often becomes complicated quickly, especially in today’s challenging market. 

This is likely why the National Association of Realtors (NAR) reports a record-low percentage of homeowners opting to sell without professional assistance. 

Instead, an increasing number of sellers are turning to real estate agents for guidance (see graph below):

Here’s why teaming up with an expert is the preferred option. Selling your home is a significant undertaking, and while FSBO might appear to save time or money, it brings a host of responsibilities. 

The process involves accurately pricing your home, managing an increasing amount of legal documentation, and crafting an effective strategy to draw in buyers. Handling it alone often means taking on more than expected.

Here are two key reasons why working with a professional can be a game-changer.

1. Getting the Price Right

One of the toughest challenges of selling your home on your own is determining the right price. It’s not just about choosing a number that seems appealing—you need to get it exactly right. If you price your home too high, potential buyers may pass it by. If you price it too low, you risk losing money or even creating doubts about the home’s condition.

Real estate agents specialize in pricing homes accurately based on current market trends. As Zillow explains:

“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 trends, and comparable home sales, a real estate agent can help you establish a price that’s both competitive and appealing to buyers. This well-thought-out pricing strategy creates the foundation for achieving the best possible sale price.

2. Understanding and Managing the Paperwork

Handling the ever-growing pile of paperwork—ranging from disclosure forms to contracts—is another significant part of the selling process. Each document must be completed accurately, and there are legal requirements to meet, which can quickly become overwhelming if you’re unfamiliar with them.

This is where an agent’s expertise becomes invaluable. They’ve managed these documents countless times and know exactly what’s required to keep the process running smoothly. Your agent will guide you step by step, ensuring the paperwork is completed correctly from the start and that you fully understand what you’re signing. With their assistance, you can sidestep unnecessary stress and avoid mistakes that might cause delays, legal issues, or other complications.

Bottom Line

Selling your home is a significant decision, and having a reliable real estate agent by your side can truly make a difference. 

Let’s connect so you have a professional to guide you through every step, from setting the right price to handling all the details. Together, we can eliminate the guesswork and help you sell your home with confidence.