In a world where you can do almost anything with a YouTube tutorial or a quick Google search, it’s easy to assume selling your home could be a DIY project too. After all, why not save a few bucks on commission, right?
But here’s the reality: the majority of homeowners still choose to work with a licensed realtor when listing their property.
In fact, according to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), only 6% of homes sold in 2023 were sold without an agent—down from 21% in the 1980s. That’s a massive shift, and it speaks volumes about what today’s sellers truly value: expertise, efficiency, and peace of mind.
So, why do sellers continue to hire realtors even when selling seems more accessible than ever? Here’s why:
1. Pricing It Right Isn’t Guesswork
Zillow and online estimators are great for ballpark numbers, but they don’t replace the market expertise of a professional. A real estate agent will take a deep look at local comps, market trends, property condition, and buyer demand to set a price that gets your home sold—not just listed.
Pricing too high can scare off buyers. Pricing too low? You leave money on the table. A good agent hits that sweet spot that drives serious interest and strong offers.
2. Marketing Is a Full-Time Job
Listing a home today isn’t just snapping a few photos and waiting for offers. It’s about telling a story and telling it everywhere.
That means:
- Professional photography
- Video walkthroughs and virtual tours
- Staging guidance
- Exposure on MLS and hundreds of real estate platforms
- Social media marketing
- Email campaigns to buyer databases and local agents
The goal is to generate buzz and reach qualified buyers—not just tire kickers scrolling out of curiosity.
3. Realtors Manage the Chaos (So You Don’t Have To)
Between scheduling showings, vetting offers, negotiating repairs, coordinating inspections, and understanding legal documents, there are a lot of moving pieces when selling a home.
A realtor keeps all of that organized and on track—so you can stay focused on your move, your family, or your next chapter. They also know how to navigate surprises and challenges that inevitably come up, like low appraisals or buyer financing hiccups.
4. You’ll Probably Net More in the End
Let’s be honest: the commission is often what makes people hesitant about hiring a realtor. But here’s the catch—homes sold with an agent typically sell for more than FSBO (For Sale by Owner) properties.
Agents bring in more eyes, attract stronger offers, and negotiate better terms. Many sellers end up netting more even after paying commission—because they sold faster, with fewer price drops, and avoided costly missteps.
5. They’re Your Advocate From Start to Finish
Selling a home is emotional. It’s not just a transaction—it’s your memories, your hard work, your investment. A good agent understands that. They act as your guide, negotiator, advocate, and advisor throughout the process.
When stress kicks in (and it will), having a steady hand to lean on makes all the difference.
While it might seem tempting to go the DIY route, most homeowners realize that having a professional in your corner saves time, reduces stress, and helps you walk away with more money. That’s why working with a trusted realtor is still the smartest move for sellers today.
Thinking about listing your home? Let’s talk about your options and what your home is really worth in today’s market. Reach out today.
