FSBO: Why You Still Need a Realtor

So, you’ve decided to sell your home For Sale By Owner (aka FSBO). You’re probably thinking:
“How hard can it be? I’ll throw a sign in the yard, post a few photos online, and BOOM…SOLD!”

Well, let’s just say… FSBO is a lot like cutting your own hair. Sure, technically you can do it yourself. But the results? Often questionable. And sometimes a little tragic.

Let’s talk about why, even if you go the FSBO route, you still need a realtor in your corner.

1. Pricing Is Not Just a Guessing Game

Zillow “Zestimates” are about as reliable as your uncle’s fishing stories. Maybe your house is worth what the internet says… but maybe it’s worth $30,000 more (or less). Realtors use real, up-to-date data, not wishful thinking, to price your home strategically. Overprice it and your listing gets stale. Underprice it and you’re practically handing out discounts to buyers.

2. Marketing Is More Than a Yard Sign

Today’s buyers aren’t driving around neighborhoods hunting for hand-written signs. They’re online—scrolling through MLS, Zillow, Realtor.com, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, you name it. A realtor gets your property maximum exposure in all the right places with professional photos, staging tips, and targeted marketing. Because let’s be honest: your cell phone pics with the laundry basket in the corner aren’t doing you any favors.

3. Showings Are Awkward Without a Middleman

Imagine standing in your living room while strangers critique your home.
“Oh, wow, this carpet is interesting.”
“These closets are tiny!”
Do you smile politely? Defend your choices? Crawl under the couch?

A realtor handles the showings so you don’t have to overhear the brutal honesty. And buyers feel more comfortable when the seller isn’t looming in the background.

4. Paperwork Is a Beast

Selling a home involves contracts, disclosures, addendums, contingencies, inspections, appraisals, title work… and that’s just Tuesday. Realtors speak fluent “real estate paperwork” and make sure you don’t accidentally sign away your firstborn. One missed checkbox can cost you thousands; or worse, land you in a lawsuit.

5. Negotiation Is Not for the Faint of Heart

Buyers love to test FSBO sellers. They assume you don’t know the market, the process, or how to push back. A realtor is your buffer, advocate, and negotiator. Think of us as your professional poker face; keeping emotions in check and securing the best deal possible.

6. Time Is Money (Literally)

Sure, you can manage your own listing. But do you also want to coordinate showings during your workday, answer buyer calls during dinner, and chase down lenders for updates? Realtors free up your time so you can focus on… you know… actually living your life.

7. Bonus: Solid FSBO Stats to Know

Here’s a snapshot from the National Association of REALTORS®, based on their 2024 Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers:

• FSBO homes made up just 6% of home sales, the lowest level on record. Realtor‑assisted sales dominated at 90%. National Association of Realtors+7Real Estate Agent PDX+7OfferMarket.us+7Realtor.com+6National Association of Realtors+6National Association of Realtors+6National Association of Realtors+2House Cashin+2

• Median sale price for FSBO homes was $380,000, while agent-assisted homes sold for $435,000—a $55,000 difference. National Association of Realtors+3National Association of Realtors+3House Cashin+3

Want to dive deeper? The REALTORS® Quick Real Estate Statistics page has the full breakdown.
See the full FSBO statistics here (NAR Quick Real Estate Statistics)

Final Thoughts: FSBO Doesn’t Mean Solo

Selling your home FSBO might save you a commission in theory; but it can also cost you tens of thousands in pricing mistakes, missed marketing opportunities, botched negotiations, and legal missteps.

The truth? Even FSBO sellers benefit from a realtor’s expertise. Think of us as your real estate safety net; making sure your DIY project doesn’t turn into a DIY disaster.

So before you sharpen that “For Sale By Owner” sign marker, ask yourself: wouldn’t you rather have a pro in your corner?

Want to talk strategy?  FSBO or not? Let’s connect. I’ll bring the expertise (and maybe even the snacks).