Selling a Home? Here’s Why Having a REALTOR® Makes All the Difference

In a world of YouTube tutorials, DIY home projects, and endless real estate apps, it might be tempting to sell your home without a professional. After all, how hard can it be to list a property and find a buyer?

In reality, selling a home is more than a sign in the yard and a few photos online. It’s a legally complex, highly emotional process. One that may be the largest transaction of your life. And that requires skills and expertise only a REALTOR® can provide.  

What Does “For-Sale-By-Owner” (FSBO) Mean?
“For-Sale-By-Owner,” or FSBO, is when a homeowner tries to sell their property without using a licensed real estate professional. While it can seem like a way to save money, many FSBO sellers end up facing unexpected challenges that cost them time, stress  and sometimes, a pretty penny. 

What Your REALTOR® Can Do For You 

Advocacy You Can Rely On

Perhaps the biggest value? A REALTOR® is your advocate. They work for you — not just to close a sale, but to get the best outcome possible. From first showing to final signature, they’re in your corner, helping you avoid surprises and reach your goals with confidence.

Pricing Expertise
When working with sellers, REALTORS® use up-to-date market data and Comparative Market Analyses (CMAs) to price your home accurately. FSBO homes are often overpriced — or underpriced — which can lead to missed opportunities or longer time on the market.

Professional Marketing
From high-quality photos and virtual tours to MLS listings and targeted digital ads, REALTORS® know how to market your home to the right audience. FSBO listings often lack the visibility and presentation needed to attract serious buyers.

Skilled Negotiation

Buyers come with agents — and those agents are trained negotiators. Are you ready to go head-to-head on price, contingencies, repairs, or closing terms? A REALTOR® advocates for your best interests through every step of the deal.

Legal and Paperwork Know-How

From disclosures to purchase agreements, Iowa’s real estate contracts are legally binding and detail-heavy. A REALTOR® ensures nothing slips through the cracks, and that you’re protected.

Time Savings and Peace of Mind

Selling a home is a full-time job. From showings, open houses, inspection coordination, answering questions, reviewing offers, a REALTOR® handles the heavy lifting so you can focus on your next move.

The Bottom Line: FSBO Might Cost More Than It Saves
According to data from the National Association of REALTORS®, FSBO homes typically sell for significantly less than those listed with an agent. And many FSBO sellers end up hiring a REALTOR® after struggling to sell on their own.

Whether you’re upsizing, downsizing, or moving across town, a REALTOR® brings strategy, experience, and professionalism to the process. Selling your home is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll ever make. Don’t go it alone.