Why Selling Your Home FSBO Could Be Costing You Thousands (and Your Peace of Mind)

Selling your home is one of the biggest financial decisions you'll ever make. Naturally, you want to maximize your profits, and avoiding real estate agent commissions might seem like the way to do it. But before you decide to go the For Sale By Owner (FSBO) route, let’s take a hard look at the facts and what they mean for your wallet, time, and sanity.


The FSBO Reality: Are You Leaving Money on the Table?

1. FSBO Homes Sell for Less.
FSBO homes sold for a median price of $380,000 in 2023, compared to $435,000 for agent-assisted sales—a staggering $55,000 difference. That’s money you could use for your next home, retirement, or even a dream vacation. In fact, studies show that homes sold with a realtor earn an average of $46,603 more in profit than FSBO sales

.2. FSBO Success Rates Are Declining.
The FSBO market hit an all-time low in 2023, accounting for just 6% of home sales. This is down from 21% in 1985 and reflects the growing complexity of real estate transactions

3. Upfront costs add up fast.

Many FSBO sellers opt for marketing packages, paying $3,000 or more upfront without any guarantee their home will sell.

Most FSBO sellers either struggle to sell their homes or end up hiring an agent after months of frustration.


The Hidden Costs of Selling FSBO

While avoiding a listing agent’s commission might sound appealing, FSBO sellers often face unexpected costs that eat into their profits:

  • Buyer’s Agent Commission: 75% of FSBO sellers still pay a buyer’s agent commission (typically 2.5-3%), negating much of the perceived savings

  • Costly Buyer Incentives: FSBO sellers are twice as likely to offer credits for repairs or remodeling—up to 6% of the home’s sale price—compared to agent-assisted sellers who often offer less costly incentives like home warranties

  • Legal Risks: Without professional guidance, 36% of FSBO sellers make legal mistakes during the transaction process, potentially leading to lawsuits or financial losses

The Emotional Toll: Selling Without Support

Selling your home isn’t just a financial transaction—it’s an emotional one. Here’s what many FSBO sellers face:

  • Pricing Challenges: Setting the right price is critical but difficult without market expertise. Mispricing your home can lead to it sitting unsold or selling for far less than it’s worth.

  • Negotiation Stress: Buyers (and their agents) are skilled negotiators who often take advantage of inexperienced FSBO sellers. In fact, 73% of buyers believe they can out-negotiate an FSBO seller.

  • Time Commitment: Managing showings, marketing, paperwork, and buyer inquiries can feel like a full-time job. Most FSBO sellers spend over 30 hours per week on these tasks


    Why Most Sellers Choose Realtors

It’s no surprise that 90% of sellers opted to work with a real estate agent in 2023 a number that continues to grow each year. Here’s why:

  • Higher Sale Prices: Agent-assisted homes not only sell faster but also for significantly more money.

  • Comprehensive Marketing: Realtors provide professional photography, MLS listings, social media campaigns, and targeted ads to ensure maximum exposure for your property.

  • Expert Pricing Strategy: Realtors use market data and experience to set a competitive price that attracts buyers while maximizing your profit.

  • Negotiation Expertise: A skilled realtor handles tough negotiations on your behalf, ensuring you get the best possible deal.

  • Legal Protection: Realtors ensure all paperwork is accurate and legally binding, protecting you from costly mistakes.

The Matt Smith Team Difference

At The Matt Smith Team, we specialize in turning "For Sale" into "Sold" quickly and for top dollar.

Here’s What We Offer:

Proven Results:

  • Our listings sell 17% faster than the market average.

  • On average, we secure $32,000 more per sale compared to FSBO transactions.

These results aren’t just numbers, they’re proof that our marketing strategies work.

Comprehensive Marketing Strategy:

  • Professional photography and drone footage

  • Social media campaigns across Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok

  • Listings on over 100 real estate platforms

  • Targeted digital ads reaching thousands of qualified buyers

    Local Expertise:
    With over 30 years in Eastern Iowa real estate and more than 2,000 homes sold, we know how to position your property for success.

  • Stress-Free Process:
    From pricing and staging to showings and closing paperwork, we handle every detail so you can focus on what matters most

Your Home Deserves Better

Selling your home is too important to leave to chance—or inexperience. While FSBO might seem like a way to save money upfront, it often leads to lower sale prices, longer time on market, and increased stress.With The Matt Smith Team by your side, you’ll benefit from:

  • Maximum exposure through cutting-edge marketing

  • Expert pricing strategies that ensure top dollar

  • Skilled negotiators fighting for your best interests

  • A seamless process from start to finish

    Ready to Maximize Your Home’s Value?

Don’t leave money on the table or risk the stress of going it alone. Contact us today for a free home valuation and discover how we can help you achieve the best possible outcome.