It’s easy to assume that you don’t need a Realtor™ to sell your home. But using an experienced Realtor™ can bring a lot of value to your sale. Here are a few benefits to using a Realtor™:

1: You’ll probably make more money.

A July 2017 study by Collateral Analytics found that For Sale by Owners (FSBOs) rarely make any savings, and in some cases the sale may end up costing more. The study showed that FSBOs sold for around 6% less than similar properties sold by Realtor™.

2: You’ll get greater exposure with a Realtor™.

Only Realtor™ are allowed to market homes for sale on the MLS, consequently, homes sold without a Realtor™ will not show up on the MLS, which is the first place most Realtors™ start when looking for homes to show prospective buyers.

3: You’ll have an expert helping you navigate the transaction.

Not only do Realtors™ have special training in real estate, but there’s also no substitute for the experience you can get with a good Realtor™.  They have great market knowledge, understand the sales and market in your neighborhood, and can conduct an analysis of comparable homes in your area. Plus, they can often predict what will happen during a negotiation and develop strategies to overcome those issues. Experience matters in making sure you get the best possible deal. 

4: You’ll have a skilled negotiator working for you.

An experienced Realtor™ is a skilled negotiator, familiar with common negotiation tactics, there are few surprises during the transaction, resulting in a better deal for you in the end. 

5: Your Realtor™ will look out for your best interest.

A Realtor™ has a responsibility to his or her client, meaning they are obligated to put your interest first.

6: You save a lot of headaches.

Many homeowners that try to sell their home independently give up after a week or two because it is such a hassle. Getting contacted daily by agents, neighbors, time wasters, and potential buyers that want to see your home, then having to deal with disclosures, inspections, contracts, and negotiations.  And once under contract, you need to deal directly with the title company and other parties to bring the deal to a close. Realtor™ handle these details for you.

7: You don’t have anything to lose.

Realtor™ only make a commission if your home sells.

Look for someone with experience!

Now that you know how much a Realtor™ can help you, start looking for someone with experience to get you the best possible result.  Look for a Realtor™ that will give you good, unbiased advice, explain market trends, and build a marketing plan to get great exposure for your home through the MLS and beyond. 

Ask for referrals and do your own research too. You’ll be spending a lot of time with your Realtor™, so choose wisely and always read reviews.