In today’s fast-paced real estate market, it might be tempting to skip the traditional route of hiring a real estate agent and try selling your home on your own—commonly known as FSBO (For Sale By Owner). The thought of saving thousands in commission sounds appealing, but the data paints a very different picture.
FSBO vs. MLS: The Truth About Your Bottom Line
According to the National Association of Realtors, homes sold by agents fetch significantly higher prices than those sold directly by owners. In fact, the 2023 NAR Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers reported that FSBO homes typically sold for about 26% less than agent-assisted homes. That’s a staggering difference—and one that far outweighs the average 5–6% commission paid to a listing agent.
Let’s break that down:
- Agent-listed home average price: $405,000
- FSBO home average price: $318,000
- Difference: $87,000
Even after paying a standard commission (let’s say $24,300 on a $405,000 sale), sellers who list with an agent still walk away with more profit than they would selling FSBO.
Why the MLS Matters
One of the biggest advantages of working with a licensed Realtor is exposure. Agents list your home on the Multiple Listing Service (MLS), which syndicates your property to major websites like Zillow, Redfin, and Realtor.com—getting it in front of thousands of buyers and agents within hours.
In contrast, FSBO sellers are limited to basic online marketplaces, yard signs, and social media posts. This dramatically reduces visibility and competition—two major drivers of higher offers.
The Risk of Leaving Money on the Table
Many FSBO sellers unknowingly underprice their home—or overprice it and watch it sit stale on the market. Agents use comparative market analysis, local trends, and buyer behavior to strategically price your property for top dollar. In most cases, sellers who go it alone either:
- Price too low and lose out on potential profits, or
- Price too high and scare off serious buyers, forcing multiple price cuts that hurt credibility.
Time, Stress, and Legal Exposure
Selling a home isn’t just about listing it—it involves:
- Coordinating showings
- Handling negotiations
- Navigating inspections and appraisals
- Managing paperwork and legal disclosures
Real estate professionals know how to protect you from liability, handle objections, and keep deals from falling apart. As a FSBO seller, you’re solely responsible for all of it—often while juggling work, family, and moving logistics.
Bottom Line: FSBO is Rarely Worth It
If your goal is to maximize profit, reduce stress, and ensure a smooth, professional sale, working with a real estate agent isn’t an expense—it’s an investment. Sellers who go FSBO often find themselves doing more work for less money, and in many cases, they end up hiring an agent after their home sits unsold for weeks or months.
Your home is likely your biggest financial asset. Why risk thousands to save a little on commission? Get expert guidance, proper exposure, and top-dollar results by partnering with a trusted local Realtor.
