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🏠 Why FSBO Costs More Than You Think

Mercer County John A. Terebey April 2, 2025

🔍 Thinking of Selling Your Home Without a Realtor?

You're not alone—but you might be leaving tens of thousands on the table. While For Sale By Owner (FSBO) sounds like a way to skip commission fees, the truth is:

Agent-assisted homes sell for around $100,000 more on average.

Let's break down the numbers—and the real value a full-service agent brings.


💰 1. You'll Sell for More—A Lot More

  • Average FSBO profit: $142,524
  • Agent-assisted profit: $189,127

✅ That's $46,603 more in your pocket, even after commission.

(Source: Real Estate Witch)


📸 2. Marketing That Sells

Full-service realtors don't just list your home—they market it professionally:

  • Pro photos: Add $3,000–$11,000+ to sale price (for homes >$300K)
  • Video tours: Generate 403% more inquiries
  • Better exposure: 80% more saves & views on Zillow

(Source: PhotoUp)

46% of FSBO sellers don't market their homes at all.

🌐 3. MLS = More Buyers

  • Listings get syndicated to Zillow, Realtor.com, Redfin, Trulia
  • FSBO homes? Only 6% use the MLS
  • Without MLS, your home is practically invisible to serious buyers

🤝 4. Better Negotiation = Better Deals

  • 73% of buyers think they can out-negotiate FSBO sellers
  • A trained agent ensures you're not leaving money or terms on the table

⏳ 5. Save Time. Avoid Legal Nightmares.

Selling a home takes:

  • Pricing strategy
  • Marketing execution
  • Showings
  • Offers & counteroffers
  • Contractual compliance

⚠️ 33% of FSBO sellers said it was harder than expected

⚠️ 10% struggled with the paperwork the most


🚫 6. The Wrong Realtor Is Just as Bad as FSBO

Hiring someone who doesn't market well is like paying FSBO prices plus commission.

Look for agents who:

  • Invest in professional photos/videos
  • Know digital strategy
  • Leverage the MLS
  • Have proven negotiation results

The Bottom Line

Selling your home is a business decision.

You wouldn't cut corners when it comes to your retirement or investments—so don't do it with your biggest asset.


🔑 Ready to Sell Smart?

📲 Hire a full-service agent who knows how to market, negotiate, and close for top dollar.

If you're in Mercer County, NJ, the Terebey Relocation Team is ready to go to work for you.

Contact us today to learn how we can help you sell for more.

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