Is Selling "For Sale By Owner" Really a Mistake?

There are lots of reasons that a seller might choose the "for sale by owner" route, but in my experience, the primary reason is money.  Oftentimes, sellers believe that they will save money by not hiring a real estate professional to list and sell their home.  Many sellers simply don't appreciate the value that an experienced and dedicated real estate agent brings to the table.

I recently read an article about the CEO of BuyOwner.com, a website that helps sellers who choose the "for sale by owner" option.  He chose to list his house with a real estate agent rather than to sell it himself.  Makes you wonder why he wouldn't follow the advice that he gives his customers, right?  If the "for sale by owner" route is so advantageous, why wouldn't this guy opt to do what he has made millions advising average people like you and me to do?  There are several reasons.

Experienced Real Estate Agents Know the Market

An experienced real estate professional has her finger on the pulse of the real estate market and understands current trends and how those trends will impact the pricing and marketing of your home.  Moreover, a good real estate agent will use creative ways to expose your property to as many Realtors and their clients as possible.

To download a copy of my FREE Report, "Top Ten Mistakes Metro Atlanta Area Sellers Make & How to Avoid Making Them:, click here.

Homes Listed With Realtors Sell For More

According to a report issued by the National Association of Realtors, in 2012, homes listed by Realtors sold for 19% more than  homes listed as "for sale by owner".  Additionally, homes listed by real estate professionals sell more quickly.  The same report also revealed that homes listed by Realtors sell in 69 days while "for sale by owner" properties take 88 days to sell.

The Majority of Homes that Sell Are Listed with Real Estate Agents

Finally, the same National Association of Realtors report showed that in 2012, 91% of homes that sold were listed by a Realtor.  That means that of all the sales that took place in 2012, only 9% were "for sale by owner" transactions. 

These are three very compelling reasons to hire a Realtor.  So, if you're thinking about selling your home, be sure to hire an qualified and experienced Realtor.  You're sure to reap the benefits!

If you live in Atlanta and would like to schedule a free, no obligation home valuation and listing appointment, please feel free to contact me at 678-446-5925.