The Truth Behind the Headlines: Sellers Are Choosing Agents in Record Numbers

If you’ve been scrolling the news lately, it would be easy to believe trust in real estate agents is collapsing. With the high-profile NAR lawsuit, commission rule changes, and constant online debate, it sounds like the traditional real estate model is on its last leg.

But the numbers paint a very different picture.

According to the NAR 2025 Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers, 91% of home sellers partnered with a real estate agent this year   the highest level ever recorded. Meanwhile, FSBO dropped to just 5%, an all-time low, meaning nearly every home sold in 2025 was guided by a professional.

Why? Because the results speak for themselves   homes sold with an agent consistently achieve higher sale prices.

1. Homes Sold With an Agent Net More Money

The same NAR data shows a clear gap: FSBO properties sold for a median of $360,000, while homes sold with an agent reached a median of $425,000   a $65,000 advantage.

That difference doesn’t happen by accident. Professional representation brings strategic value in areas like:

• Smart pricing: Aligning with real-time market shifts, buyer demand, and local comps.
• Maximum exposure: MLS syndication, targeted social media, email marketing, and agent-to-agent networks
• Skilled negotiation: Navigating offers, repairs, contingencies, and terms to protect your bottom line
• Legal + compliance support: Reducing risk, paperwork mistakes, and post-closing issues

Selling isn’t just about finding a buyer   it’s about maximizing what you walk away with and avoiding costly missteps.

2. Trust and Relationships Still Drive Decisions

Despite all the talk about disruption and technology, real estate remains powered by human connection.

According to the same NAR data:

• 66% of sellers hired an agent they already knew or who came through a referral
• 80% interviewed just one agent before signing

Homeowners aren’t shopping for the lowest fee   they’re choosing the professional they trust.

3. Today’s Top Agents Win on Skill, Not Pressure

Modern sellers are choosing full-service professionals who handle every detail.

According to the data, 86% of sellers reported that their agent delivered comprehensive support   from prep and pricing to marketing and buyer qualification.

When asked what mattered most, sellers prioritized:

• Effective marketing
• Accurate pricing
• Meeting their desired timeline

And when deciding who to hire, reputation, trustworthiness, and honesty topped the list. Sellers understand: expertise matters

4. Technology Enhances the Process, But People Seal the Deal

Digital tools have transformed how homes are marketed, but they’re only effective in skilled hands.

Most agents still combine traditional methods   MLS exposure, signage, and open houses   with modern tactics like social media ads, video content, and virtual tours.

The strongest results come from pairing expert judgment with the right technology.

5. Sellers Aren’t Just Happy, They Become Promoters

Hiring an agent doesn’t just get the sale done   it creates long-term trust and loyalty.

NAR data shows:

• 87% of sellers said they would recommend their agent
• 65% have already made a referral
• Nearly 1 in 4 referred their agent four or more times in the past year

Great experiences lead to repeat business and shared enthusiasm.

Selling your home is a major financial milestone   make sure you approach it with accurate guidance, a proven plan, and trusted support.

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