In the age of Zillow, Trulia, and Redfin, it’s easy to assume that you don’t need a Realtor to help you sell your home. However if you have a home in great condition there are many benefits to hiring an agent!

You will probably make more money

Selling your home For Sale By Owner makes a lot of sense for homeowners on the surface. It’s an opportunity to save on the commission you’d normally pay a Realtor to sell your home, which is usually the number one reason someone sells their home For Sale By Owner. By saving on the commission, the data shows you’re actually losing on the net and that a Real Estate Agent is worth their commission.   

You’ll get greater exposure for your home

Only Realtors are allowed to market homes for sale in the MLS.  Because of that, homes sold independently without a Realtor will not show up on the MLS. The MLS is the first place Realtors start when looking for homes to show prospective buyers.  Listing your home for sale in the MLS offers the property the greatest exposure because it is actively marketed to Realtors and it is also automatically syndicated and displayed on third-party sites like Zillow or Trulia.  You get the best of both worlds.

You’ll have an expert in the field helping you navigate the transaction

Not only do Realtors have special training in real estate, but they are also able to conduct a detailed analysis of comparable homes for sale in your area. As well they understand contracts, how to read them, and what to look out for. An experienced Realtor can often predict what will happen during a negotiation and develop strategies to overcome those obstacles in advance.  Experience matters in making sure you get the best possible deal.

You’ll have a skilled negotiator advocating on your behalf

An experienced Realtor is a professional negotiator.  Since they are familiar with common negotiation tactics, there are few surprises during the transaction. This can result in an offer that is more favorable to you as the seller.

You’ll have someone looking out for your best interest

A Realtor has a fiduciary responsibility to his or her client.  That means they are obligated to put your interest first. 

You save yourself a lot of headaches

Are you ready for your phone to ring and for your email to blow up?  You’ll be getting contacted directly by agents, nosy neighbors, and potential buyers that want to see your home.  An agent is experienced in making sure that buyers are prequalified so they do not waste your time. You would also be dealing with disclosures, inspections, contracts, and potential re-negotiations.  By having an agent they handle all of these items and just keep you updated along the way.

You don’t have anything to lose

Realtors 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 candid advice, explain market trends, and apply a strategic marketing plan to get massive exposure for your home through the MLS and beyond.