Selling Your Home FSBO: Why It Seems Smart, But Often Costs You Big

Nov 17

Selling your home “For Sale By Owner” (FSBO) can be appealing. You might think: “I’ll save on commission, control the process, and sell my home myself.” On the surface, it seems like a smart financial move. But in reality, FSBO sellers often leave a significant amount of money on the table.

Here’s why:

1. Fewer Qualified Buyers See Your Home

When you sell on your own, your home is primarily being marketed to the general public. Qualified buyers—those actively working with agents—rarely see FSBO listings. That’s because most buyers rely on real estate advisors to filter properties, preview homes, and guide them to the right options. Less exposure equals fewer offers—and less leverage.

2. Days on Market Will Be Longer

FSBO homes typically sit on the market much longer than professionally listed homes. Without an advisor to position your home strategically, coordinate showings, and respond quickly to offers, you risk months of added stress and carrying costs—even if the market is hot.

3. Profit Loss Is Real: Up to 29% Less

Studies and local market data show that FSBO sellers, on average, walk away with roughly 29% less profit than sellers who list with a reputable brokerage. That gap isn’t just commission—it comes from pricing missteps, poor marketing, less competitive offers, and missed opportunities for negotiation.

4. Selling on Your Own Is Possible—but Risky

Yes, it is possible to sell your home on your own. But pitfalls abound:

Underpricing or overpricing your home
Poor marketing that fails to reach serious buyers
Negotiating without the knowledge of current market trends
Legal and contractual mistakes that can cost time or money

Even small missteps can cost tens of thousands of dollars—or more.

5. The Value of a Trusted Real Estate Advisor

A skilled real estate advisor:

Maximizes exposure to qualified buyers through MLS listings, agent networks, and marketing campaigns
Negotiates effectively, leveraging multiple offers to secure the highest sale price
Guides you through contracts and disclosures, protecting you from legal or financial risk
Provides market insight, so your home is positioned perfectly from day one

More interested buyers = more competition = higher sale price. That’s the simple math that FSBO sellers often overlook.

6. The Bottom Line

FSBO may seem like a cost-saving shortcut, but in reality, it often reduces your profit, extends your selling timeline, and increases your stress. Working with a trusted advisor ensures you get the exposure, negotiation power, and professional guidance needed to maximize your home’s value and close confidently.

When it comes to your largest financial asset, having a partner who has your best interests at heart isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity.