Skipping the agent might look like a clever way to cut costs when selling your home—but here’s the reality:
Last year, homes sold with an agent brought in nearly 15% more than those sold without one.
That kind of gap is tough to overlook. And with more homes on the market right now, trying to sell on your own could end up being a costly mistake.
This Isn’t the Market for DIY Selling
A few years back, you might’ve managed to sell your home with just a “For Sale By Owner” sign and a DIY approach. Back then, homes were selling fast, and buyers were doing whatever it took to land a deal. But things have changed.
With more homes on the market than we’ve seen in years, it’s no longer a “list it and they will come” situation—you need professional expertise to stand out. A yard sign and a few quick photos won’t cut it anymore.
Right now, the housing market is shifting back to a more typical balance between buyers and sellers—and that changes the game. In fact, according to Realtor.com, the number of homes for sale this July hit its highest level for any July since 2019 (see graph below):
While inventory growth will differ from one local market to another, this graph shows that, on a national level, the number of homes for sale is steadily moving back toward normal.
With more options available, buyers are becoming more selective. They’ll be comparing your home against others in terms of price, condition, photos, location, and more. If your home doesn’t stand out, it’s likely to be overlooked.
More Inventory = More Competition for You
Selling in today’s market takes more than just listing your home—it requires smart pricing, expert preparation, professional marketing, and strong negotiation skills. If you’re not bringing all of that to the table, it could cost you in the end.
More Homeowners Are Turning To the Pros
That’s why more home sellers are choosing to work with agents today. According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), the share of homeowners who sold without an agent hit a record low last year. And many of those who did try going solo quickly realized it wasn’t the right move.
In fact, Zillow reports that 21% of sellers who started out on their own ended up hiring an agent after facing challenges.
So, why take the risk of going it alone? When you work with a local expert, you get:
-
Accurate pricing to draw in serious buyers and get the best return
-
Pro staging and presentation tips to make your home shine
-
High-level marketing, with exposure and access to buyer networks you won’t reach on your own
-
Skilled negotiation to handle offers, inspections, and protect your bottom line
-
In-depth local market knowledge to help your home stand out in a crowded market