Deciding how to sell your home is one of the most important financial choices you will ever make. Some homeowners are drawn to the idea of For Sale By Owner (FSBO), thinking it will save money by avoiding agent commissions. On paper, it may look simple enough: set a price, list the home, find a buyer, and close the deal. But in practice, selling without professional support comes with challenges many do not anticipate.

What Selling One’s Home Really Involves

When you choose to sell your home without an agent, you take on full responsibility for every step of the process. That means:

  • Pricing the property correctly by studying comparable sales and understanding market conditions

  • Creating and managing marketing including photography, listing descriptions, and online promotion

  • Scheduling and hosting showings while communicating directly with buyers and their agents

  • Handling negotiations such as counteroffers, contingencies, and contract terms

  • Completing contracts and paperwork including disclosures and legal documents with accuracy

While this approach gives you full control, it also requires significant time, knowledge, and attention to detail. Mistakes can delay your sale or cost you money.

Why Many Sellers Choose an Agent

Working with a real estate professional can take the stress off your shoulders while helping you achieve better results. Here is what an experienced agent brings:

  • Accurate Pricing: Agents rely on current data and neighborhood insight to position your home competitively from day one.

  • Powerful Marketing: With staging guidance, professional photos, and access to online platforms, your listing reaches the right buyers quickly.

  • Access to Qualified Buyers: Agents connect you with pre-approved buyers who are serious about making offers.

  • Negotiation Expertise: An agent advocates for your best interests, ensuring stronger offers and smoother terms.

  • Guidance on Paperwork: From contracts to closing, an agent ensures all documents are completed correctly, reducing the risk of errors.

  • Less Stress: Instead of juggling every detail yourself, you can focus on your next move while your agent manages the process.

Does Selling One’s Home Actually Save You Money

Many homeowners believe that avoiding commission means bigger profits. However, research consistently shows that homes sold by agents often sell for more than FSBO homes. After commission, most sellers still net more because of stronger pricing, broader marketing, and skilled negotiation.

When FSBO Might Make Sense

There are a few situations where selling without an agent could work. If you are selling to a trusted family member or friend, the process may be simpler. If you are a licensed real estate professional, you already have the skills to navigate the sale. Selling your own home can also be easier in very hot markets where demand is high and homes sell quickly.

Even then, many sellers still seek professional or legal guidance to review documents for peace of mind.

Why Most Sellers No Longer Go It Alone

Data from the National Association of REALTORS® shows that just 7% of home sales are now completed without an agent, the lowest number ever recorded. Nearly 90% of homeowners are instead choosing to work with a real estate professional.

This shift reflects how complex the selling process has become. From accurate pricing and targeted marketing to negotiating offers and managing closing paperwork, selling a home takes expertise. More sellers are relying on agents because they want guidance, protection, and the best possible financial outcome.

Why a Team is a Great Choice

At EmpowerHome Team, our mission is to make selling your home as seamless, profitable, and stress-free as possible. With proven systems, a large network of ready buyers, and deep local expertise, we help families sell faster and for top dollar. Every client is treated with honesty, care, and personalized attention because your home sale deserves more than a one-size-fits-all approach.

Technically, you do not need an agent to sell your home. But for most homeowners, the knowledge, resources, and results an experienced agent provides far outweigh the potential savings of going it alone. At EmpowerHome Team, we are here to guide you every step of the way so you can move forward with confidence. If you are thinking of selling, reach out today to see how we can help you achieve your goals.

We’ve guided thousands of buyers and sellers through every type of market, and we’d love to help you navigate this market with confidence! If you or someone you know is thinking about making a move, Call or Text us! If Your Home Doesn’t Sell, Kristen Bernard Will Buy It – That’s Our Guarantee!* Call or Text us Today at 980-294-4523!