Thinking about selling your home on your own as a “For Sale by Owner” (FSBO)? You’re not alone—it’s something many homeowners consider. However, with today’s changing market conditions, more and more sellers are realizing it may not be worth the gamble.
In fact, the latest data from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) shows that fewer homeowners than ever are choosing to go it alone (see graph below):
For the small percentage of homeowners who do choose to sell on their own, the data reveals many still have doubts about their decision.
In fact, a recent survey shows that 3 out of 4 homeowners who plan to skip using an agent aren’t fully confident it’s the right move.
Why the hesitation? It comes down to today’s evolving market. While it’s not necessarily a bad market, it does demand a more thoughtful, strategic approach—and that’s where a trusted real estate professional truly makes a difference.
Here are just two key ways an agent’s experience can give you an edge:
1. Getting the Price Right in a Market That’s Evolving
One of the biggest challenges of selling your home on your own is getting the price right. It’s not just about picking a number that sounds fair or matching what your neighbor sold for a while ago—it’s about aligning with where the market stands right now. And without the guidance of an experienced agent, there’s a greater chance you’ll miss the mark.
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.”
In short, agents know what’s moving, what buyers are willing to pay, and how to position your home to stand out and sell. That kind of expertise can make a big difference—especially in a market that’s starting to even out.
2. Handling (and Actually Understanding) the Legal Documents
Selling a home also comes with a mountain of paperwork—from disclosures to contracts—and any misstep can lead to serious legal consequences. This is another area where having a real estate agent makes a big difference.
Agents are well-versed in these documents and have been through the process countless times. They know exactly what’s needed to keep everything running smoothly and to help you avoid costly delays. And with today’s buyers often including more contingencies and requests for concessions, an agent will walk you through every form step by step, ensuring everything is accurate and properly documented from the start.
3. Selling Your House Quickly Even in a Shifting Market
With more homes on the market now, properties aren’t moving quite as quickly as they were—but that doesn’t mean yours can’t. You can still sell fast with the right strategy in place to make your home stand out.
Keep in mind, most homeowners don’t have access to the same network, marketing resources, or reach that a seasoned real estate agent does. So if speed is important to you, partnering with a pro can make all the difference in getting your home sold efficiently and effectively.
Bottom Line
In a shifting market, having the right agent and the right game plan is more important than ever. Let’s connect so you don’t have to navigate the process alone—and so you can list your home with confidence, knowing you have expert support from the very start.
