Why Skipping a Realtor Could Be the Most Expensive Mistake You Make

With so much information online today, it’s easy to think: “Why not sell my home myself? I can save on commission and pocket more money!” On the surface, it sounds like a smart move. But the reality is that DIY selling, also known as FSBO (For Sale By Owner) often ends up costing homeowners more than it saves.

Here’s why going it alone can be risky.

Limited Exposure = Fewer Buyers

When you sell on your own, your home usually doesn’t get the same exposure as it would with a professional. Agents market properties across multiple platforms, use professional photography, and tap into a network of buyers and other agents. Less exposure means fewer showings and fewer chances for competing offers that drive your price up.

Pricing Pitfalls

Setting the right price is one of the most important (and difficult) parts of selling a home. Price too high, and your home sits. Price too low, and you leave money on the table. Without access to in-depth market data and experience reading the trends, FSBO sellers often miss the sweet spot.

Negotiation Challenges

Selling a home isn’t just about finding a buyer, it’s about negotiating repairs, inspection results, appraisal issues, and sometimes multiple offers. Without someone skilled in negotiations, you risk giving away thousands just to keep the deal together.

Legal and Paperwork Risks

Real estate transactions come with contracts, disclosures, deadlines, and state-specific requirements. Missing one detail can create liability or even legal trouble. Realtors handle these documents every day, we know the process inside and out, and how to protect you along the way.

The Numbers Don’t Lie

Studies consistently show that homes sold with the help of an agent sell for more money on average than homes sold directly by owners. In other words, trying to save on commission often backfires.

The Bottom Line

DIY projects are great for painting a room or building a deck but selling your home isn’t the place to experiment. A Realtor® brings expertise, marketing, negotiation skills, and protection to the table, all of which help you get the best possible outcome.

Thinking about selling? Let’s talk. I’ll help you navigate the process smoothly and safely while keeping more of your hard-earned equity where it belongs: in your pocket.

   ClickHERE to connect!