Cutting out the agent might sound like a clever way to save when you sell your house. But here’s the thing—last year, homes sold with an agent went for almost 15% more than those that sold without one.
That gap? Pretty hard to ignore. And with more homes hitting the market right now, trying to go it alone could be a very expensive mistake.
This Isn’t the Market for DIY Selling
A few years ago, you might’ve gotten away with a “For Sale By Owner” (FSBO) sign in the yard and a few cell phone pics. Back then, homes were flying off the shelves, and buyers were making wild offers just to win.
But that’s not where we are anymore. The market has shifted. With more inventory than we’ve seen in years, this is no longer a “list it and they will come” situation. You need professional expertise to stand out.
Because here’s the truth: a yard sign and a few quick snapshots are not going to cut it.
Right now, the housing market is finding its balance again between buyers and sellers. And that changes the game. According to Realtor.com, the number of homes for sale this past July was the highest for any July since 2019 (see graph below):
While inventory growth will vary from one area to another, nationally, the number of homes for sale is creeping back toward normal.
More Inventory = More Competition
When there are more homes for buyers to choose from, they get picky. They’ll compare everything—price, condition, photos, location. If your home doesn’t shine in every category, it’s going to get passed over for the one that does.
Selling today requires:
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A spot-on pricing strategy
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Expert prep work and staging advice
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Professional marketing that reaches the right buyers
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Skilled negotiation to get (and keep) the deal together
If you’re not bringing all that to the table, you’re likely leaving money behind.
More Sellers Are Calling in the Pros
There’s a reason more homeowners are turning to agents right now. Data from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) shows a record-low percentage of homeowners sold without an agent last year. And many who tried FSBO quickly realized their mistake.
Zillow reports that 21% of FSBO sellers ended up hiring an agent anyway after struggling to sell on their own.
Here’s what you get when you start with a local pro from the jump:
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Pricing precision to attract the right buyers and maximize your return
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Expert staging advice to highlight your home’s best features
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Pro-level marketing and access to buyer networks you can’t reach on your own
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Negotiation skills to protect your bottom line during offers and inspections
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Local market insight so your home stands out in the current inventory
In today’s market, an agent’s expertise isn’t optional—it’s essential.
Bottom Line
With more listings and choosier buyers, FSBO just isn’t worth the risk. Many sellers who try it end up working with an agent anyway—so why not start there?
If you’re thinking about selling, let’s talk strategy. We’ll walk through what it takes to get your home sold for the best possible price—without leaving a single dollar on the table.
