Why Most Sellers Hire Real Estate Agents Today
TL;DR
Most sellers today choose real estate agents because pricing is complex, legal paperwork is risky, and the market requires strong marketing to sell quickly. With shifting conditions and informed buyers, having a professional ensures accurate pricing, fewer mistakes, faster sales, and a smoother experience overall.
The smart way to sell your home in a shifting market
Selling your house is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll ever make. With today’s evolving real estate market, many homeowners wonder: Should I try selling my house on my own, or hire an agent?
While the idea of going “For Sale by Owner” (FSBO) might sound tempting—thinking you could save on commission—the reality is that most sellers today are choosing to work with a real estate agent. And for good reason.
According to recent data from the National Association of Realtors (NAR), the number of homeowners selling without an agent has dropped to a record low. Even more telling, surveys reveal that three out of four homeowners who consider selling without an agent admit they aren’t fully confident about that choice.
So why are more sellers turning to real estate professionals? The answer is simple: in a market that’s constantly shifting, having an expert by your side can save you time, stress, and even money.
1. Getting the Price Right
Pricing your home is not about guesswork. It’s not enough to base your asking price on what your neighbor’s house sold for or what you think your home is worth.
Today’s buyers are more informed than ever, and they won’t overpay. That’s where a skilled real estate agent makes all the difference. Agents have access to real-time local data, understand current buyer trends, and know how to position your home competitively.
As Zillow explains:
“Agents are pros when it comes to pricing properties and have their finger on the pulse of your local market.”
The right pricing strategy can mean more offers, less time on the market, and ultimately, a better deal for you.
2. Navigating Legal Documents With Ease
Selling a house isn’t just about finding a buyer—it’s about handling the paperwork correctly. Disclosures, contracts, contingencies, and negotiations all come with serious legal weight. One mistake could cost you time, money, or even the sale itself.
Real estate agents have guided countless sellers through these forms and know how to avoid costly errors. In today’s market, where buyers are adding more contingencies and requesting concessions, having someone experienced to manage the details is invaluable.
3. Selling Faster in a Competitive Market
The housing market is no longer the frenzy it was a couple of years ago. With more inventory available, homes don’t always sell overnight. But with the right strategy, yours can still stand out and sell quickly.
Agents bring something most homeowners don’t have: a powerful network and professional marketing tools. From listing photography and staging advice to online exposure and buyer connections, an agent ensures your home gets maximum visibility. That edge can be the difference between a property that lingers and one that sells at top value.
Bottom Line
In today’s market, selling your house without expert guidance is a bigger risk than most realize. That’s why more sellers than ever are choosing to partner with real estate professionals.
A trusted agent helps you set the right price, handle the legal details, and market your home effectively—so you can sell with confidence.
If you’re thinking about selling, remember: you don’t have to do it alone. With the right agent by your side, you’ll have the expertise and support you need to navigate today’s market and move forward successfully.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why are most home sellers choosing real estate agents today?
A: Because the market is constantly shifting, sellers rely on agents for expertise in pricing, marketing, and negotiations. Most homeowners feel more confident with a professional guiding the process.
Q: How can a real estate agent help me price my home correctly in today’s market?
A: Agents use real-time local data, buyer trends, and pricing strategies to position your home competitively so you don’t leave money on the table or sit on the market too long. If you want help determining your ideal price, I can create a personalized analysis for you.
Q: What legal documents make selling a home more complex for owners?
A: Sellers must manage disclosures, contracts, contingencies, and other legally binding documents. Errors in these forms can delay a sale or lead to financial issues, which is why experience matters.
Q: Is it harder to sell a home quickly without an agent in a competitive market?
A: Yes. With more inventory available, homes don’t sell as fast as they did during the frenzy. Agents provide marketing tools, networking, and visibility that help properties stand out. If you’d like support creating a fast-selling strategy, I’m here to help.
Q: What risks do sellers face when trying to sell their home without an agent?
A: FSBO sellers often struggle with pricing errors, limited exposure, legal mistakes, and slower sales. Without market data and professional tools, the process can become stressful and costly.
By Alex Parmenidez, REALTOR® | Coldwell Banker Realty
Alex Parmenidez | Realtor® Licensed CT-MA-RI | Coldwell Banker Realty
196 Waterman St, Providence, RI 02906
C: (401) 426-4825 | O: (401) 351-2017
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