Why FSBOs Lose More Than They Save

Thinking about selling your home without a realtor to save on commission? You’re not alone. Many homeowners believe that going the For Sale By Owner (FSBO) route will put more money in their pocket. But in reality, most FSBOs end up losing more than they save—and often wish they’d had a professional by their side.

Pricing Pitfalls: Leaving Money on the Table

Pricing a home isn’t as simple as checking a few listings online. Realtors have access to up-to-the-minute market data and know how to position your property for maximum return. FSBO sellers often price too high (scaring off buyers) or too low (missing out on thousands). In fact, studies consistently show that homes sold with an agent fetch more—enough to cover the commission and then some.

Marketing & Exposure: More Eyes, Better Offers

With FSBO, your home’s exposure is limited. Realtors invest in professional photography, virtual tours, staging, and have access to the MLS—a powerful tool that instantly broadcasts your listing to thousands of buyers and agents. Most buyers start their search online, and without MLS access, your home is likely to get lost in the crowd. Less exposure means fewer offers and less leverage when negotiating.

Legal Landmines: Protecting Your Biggest Asset

Real estate transactions come with a mountain of paperwork and legal requirements. One missed disclosure or overlooked contract detail can lead to costly lawsuits. Realtors are trained to navigate these complexities, making sure you’re protected every step of the way.

Negotiation Know-How: Getting the Best Deal

Negotiating the sale of a home isn’t just about price—it’s about repairs, timelines, contingencies, and more. Experienced agents know how to advocate for your interests, handle tough conversations, and keep deals from falling apart. Without this expertise, FSBO sellers often leave money on the table or wind up with unfavorable terms.

Buyer Representation: Why It Matters

Here’s something many sellers overlook: it’s free for buyers to work with a realtor. Most buyers want (and expect) professional representation to guide them, protect their interests, and ensure a smooth process. If you refuse to work with agents, you’re shutting the door on the majority of motivated, qualified buyers—dramatically shrinking your pool of potential offers.

The True Cost of FSBO

Between pricing mistakes, limited exposure, legal risks, and missed buyers, FSBO often ends up costing far more than the commission you hoped to save. Selling your home is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll ever make—why go it alone?

Ready to get the best value for your home and peace of mind throughout the process? Let’s connect and make your sale a success!