For Sale By Owner (FSBO) vs. Hiring a Real Estate Agent

Should You Sell Your Home on Your Own?

Considering selling your home without a real estate agent? A For Sale By Owner (FSBO) approach might seem appealing at first—saving money on commission, having more control, and putting your own knowledge of the home to good use. But before you place that FSBO sign in your yard, it’s crucial to weigh the pros and cons. As a local REALTOR®, I aim to equip you with valuable insights—drawing from data and expert perspectives both supporting and cautioning against going it alone—so you can make the best choice for your situation.

It’s also worth noting that FSBO sales remain relatively rare, accounting for just 6% of home sales in 2024, according to the National Association of Realtors® (NAR). So why do some homeowners choose this path? And more importantly, is it right for you?

The information provided on this website does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice; instead, all information, content, and materials available on this site are for general informational purposes only.

Why Consider FSBO?

✅ Save on Commission Fees –  Without an agent, you won’t pay the standard listing commission, potentially saving thousands.
✅ Full Control –  You set the price, schedule showings, and negotiate directly with buyers.
✅ Personal Knowledge of the Home –  No one knows your home better than you do, making it easier to highlight its unique features.
✅ Direct Communication –  Work directly with buyers without a middleman.

Challenges of FSBO

❌ FSBO Homes Sell for Less –  While you might save on agent commission, FSBO homes statistically sell for less, meaning you could be leaving money on the table.
❌ FSBO Can Take More Time –  Incorrect pricing or poor marketing can result in fewer offers and a longer sale timeline. Without MLS access, getting visibility is difficult.
❌ There’s a Lot of Time-Consuming Work –  Selling a home is a full-time job. FSBO sellers must handle marketing, pricing, photography, scheduling showings, and negotiations—all on their own.
❌ Negotiating Offers Can Be Tough –  It’s not just about the highest price; contingencies like inspections and appraisals can complicate the process. Without experience, FSBO sellers risk accepting a less favorable deal.
❌ Setting a Price is Important but Challenging –  Real estate agents use comparative market analyses to price homes effectively. Without expertise, FSBO sellers risk overpricing (leading to a stale listing) or underpricing (losing potential profit). Emotional attachment can also cloud pricing judgment.
❌ Marketing Takes a Lot of Work –  Without MLS access, FSBO sellers rely on word-of-mouth and limited online platforms, reducing buyer reach. Professional marketing tools and strategies give listed homes a competitive edge.

Why Work with a Real Estate Agent?

🔹 Expert Pricing Strategies –  Agents use market data to price your home competitively.
🔹 Wider Exposure –  Agents list homes on the MLS, social media, and marketing platforms to attract more buyers.
🔹 Skilled Negotiation –  Agents handle negotiations to maximize your profit and terms.
🔹 Hassle-Free Process –  From paperwork to closing, an agent ensures a smooth transaction.

Which Option is Right for You?

If you have experience in real estate and plenty of time to manage the process, FSBO might be an option. However, if you want to maximize your home’s value, minimize stress, and ensure a seamless transaction, working with a professional real estate agent is often the best choice.



📞 Thinking about selling? Let’s talk! Contact me today to learn how I can help you get the best price for your home with less hassle.