Many homeowners consider selling their house without the help of a real estate agent, thinking it will save money and give them full control. This option, known as For Sale By Owner or FSBO, can seem appealing at first glance. But while skipping commission fees may sound like a win, the reality of selling a home on your own is more complicated.

What Selling One’s Home Really Involves

Selling without an agent puts the entire process in your hands. From setting the right price to managing legal paperwork, you become responsible for every detail. That means:

  • Pricing the home accurately based on local market trends and comparable sales

  • Marketing the property effectively through photography, listing descriptions, and online promotion

  • Scheduling and managing showings while answering questions from buyers and their agents

  • Handling negotiations with buyers on price, repairs, and contingencies

  • Completing contracts and paperwork including disclosures and legal documents

While this gives you full control, it also comes with risk. Pricing too high or mishandling paperwork can delay your sale or reduce your bottom line.

The Benefits of Using a Real Estate Agent

Working with a professional agent can help you avoid costly mistakes and maximize your outcome. Here are some key advantages:

  • Accurate Pricing: Agents use up-to-date data to position your home competitively and attract strong offers.

  • Stronger Marketing: From professional photography to targeted online ads, agents ensure your home reaches the right buyers.

  • Qualified Buyers: Agents bring in pre-approved buyers, saving you time and avoiding dead ends.

  • Negotiation Skills: An agent advocates for your interests, working to secure the best price and terms.

  • Paperwork and Legal Protection: Every step is handled correctly, reducing the chance of delays or errors.

  • Time Savings: Instead of managing a second job, you can focus on your move while your agent handles the details.

Does FSBO Save Money

One of the biggest reasons homeowners try to sell their own home is to avoid commission fees. But skipping an agent does not always equal more profit. Research shows that homes listed with agents often sell for more than FSBO properties. After commission, many sellers still net more thanks to expert pricing, wider marketing reach, and skilled negotiation.

When Selling One’s Home Might Work

Selling your own home can be realistic in certain cases. If you are selling to a family member or friend, the process is often simpler. Licensed real estate professionals may also have the knowledge and network to handle their own transactions. In very hot markets where homes sell quickly, not using an agent can sometimes succeed without extensive marketing.

Even in these situations, most sellers still benefit from having an attorney or professional review contracts for added peace of mind.

Why Selling Without an Agent Keeps Declining

According to the National Association of REALTORS®, only 7% of home sales are now handled directly by owners, the lowest percentage ever recorded. At the same time, almost 90% of sellers are choosing to work with real estate agents.

This trend shows just how much goes into a successful sale. Pricing a home accurately, creating strong marketing, managing offers, and navigating closing details require expertise. More homeowners are realizing that having a trusted professional on their side leads to smoother transactions and better results.

Why Choose a Team

At EmpowerHome Team, we understand that every home and every family’s needs are unique. Our proven systems, exclusive buyer database, and local expertise help homeowners sell faster and for top dollar. With personalized care and step-by-step guidance, we make the selling process smoother and less stressful so you can move forward with confidence.

The truth about FSBO is that while it seems like a way to save money, most homeowners find that the expertise, resources, and results of an experienced real estate agent outweigh the potential savings. At EmpowerHome Team, our mission is to help you get the best possible outcome for your home sale. If you are thinking about selling, reach out today and let us guide you through the process with confidence.

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, EmpowerHome Team Will Buy It – That’s Our Guarantee!* Call or Text us Today at 832-979-9556!