The Value of Expertise: The Impact of a Real Estate Agent

If you're thinking about selling your house on your own as a "For Sale by Owner" (FSBO), it's important to consider if it's worth the extra stress. This approach means taking on numerous responsibilities by yourself, and without expertise, mistakes can easily occur and become overwhelming.

A report from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) highlights two main areas where individuals who sold their own houses faced difficulties: pricing and paperwork.

Here are a few ways an agent can simplify these tasks:

Getting the Price Right

Setting the right price for your house is crucial. If you're selling on your own, two common problems can arise: overpricing or underpricing. Both can make selling your house challenging. According to NerdWallet:

“When selling a home, first impressions matter. Your house’s market debut is your first chance to attract a buyer, and it’s important to get the pricing right. If your home is overpriced, you risk buyers not seeing the listing.

. . . But price your house too low and you could end up leaving some serious money on the table. A bargain-basement price could also turn some buyers away, as they may wonder if there are any underlying problems with the house.”

To avoid these pitfalls, team up with a real estate agent. Agents know how to determine the perfect price due to their deep understanding of the local housing market. They use their expertise to set a price that aligns with what buyers are willing to pay, giving your house the best chance to make a strong impression from the start.

Understanding and Performing Paperwork

Selling a house involves extensive paperwork and legal documentation that must be accurate. There are numerous rules and regulations to follow, making it tricky for homeowners to manage everything on their own. Without a professional by your side, you could face liability risks and legal complications.

Real estate agents are experts in all the contracts and paperwork needed for selling a house. They know the regulations and can guide you through the process, reducing the chance of mistakes that could lead to legal problems or delays. As an article from First American explains:

“To buy or sell a home, you need to accurately complete many forms, disclosures, and legal documents. A real estate agent ensures you cross every ‘t’ and dot every ‘i’ to help you avoid having a transaction fall through and/or prevent a costly mistake.”

Instead of managing the growing pile of documents on your own, team up with an agent who can be your advisor, helping you avoid any legal hurdles.

Bottom Line

Selling a house on your own can be time-consuming and stressful. Connect with a local real estate agent to help with all the finer details, including setting the right price, handling paperwork, and much more. This way, you can alleviate stress and ensure a smoother selling process.