The Risk of Selling Solo

Selling your home privately could end up being a costly mistake.

If you're planning to sell your home, you might be tempted to do it yourself. But selling privately can come with costly pitfalls that may outweigh any savings.

Just as it’s not wise to represent yourself in court, trying to market and negotiate your biggest financial asset without professional help can be a risky move.

Here are a few key reasons why you should consider using a real estate agent to sell your home:

Buyer Buzz

Your reach as a private seller is limited. An agent can use the MLS to market your home, attracting far more buyers and increasing the chance of a bidding war.

On the House

Listing your home involves various expenses such as photography, staging and advertising, which can quickly add up. Real estate agents typically cover these expenses as part of their service.

Time Is Money

Selling a home takes time: answering calls, booking showings, handling paperwork. Rather than juggling it all, you can focus on what you do best and let a pro handle the rest.

Carried Away

Private sales often take longer to close, which means you’ll be responsible for carrying costs such as mortgage payments, insurance, utilities and taxes, which will eat into your profit.

Silent Stigma

A home that lingers on the market can develop a stigma, causing buyers to assume there's something wrong with it, even if there isn't.

Street Smart

Real estate agents understand local pricing trends and buyer patterns. Their advice is key during negotiations, especially if you’re juggling offers or handling counteroffers.

Qualified Buyers

Without an agent, you're responsible for vetting buyers, often with no idea if they’re serious or financially qualified. Agents ensure only legitimate, motivated buyers come through the door.

Third-Party Negotiator

Real estate deals can get emotional. A third-party negotiator keeps things professional and can help avoid deal-breaking missteps.

Splitting Headache

Most buyers use agents, who expect to be paid by the seller. That means you’re likely paying commission anyway, while also doing the work yourself. And if a buyer comes without an agent, they’ll usually expect a discount.