The Truth About “For Sale By Owners”
The Myth vs. Reality
On paper, selling your home yourself sounds like a smart money-saving move. Skip the agent, keep the commission, pocket more cash… right? Not so fast. The truth is, most “For Sale By Owner” (FSBO) listings actually sell for less money and take longer to sell than agent-represented homes.
Why? Because in Northern Virginia’s competitive real estate market, exposure, strategy, and negotiation matter more than ever.
_____________________________________________________
Are you thinking of going the FSBO route (just… don’t) or are you stuck in a bad listing contract with yourself? Contact me HERE to get your home sold. Now let’s dive in.
_____________________________________________________
The Numbers Don’t Lie
Lower Sale Prices: National Association of Realtors® data consistently shows FSBO homes sell for significantly less than those sold with an agent.
Limited Exposure: Without access to the MLS, your home misses out on 90% of serious buyers searching with agents.
Weaker Negotiation Power: Buyers know FSBO sellers want to save on commission, so they often come in low.
Why FSBO Struggles in Northern Virginia
Northern Virginia isn’t a slow, rural market where you can put a sign in the yard and wait for offers. Here, buyers are savvy, rates shift quickly, and multiple-offer situations are common. Selling FSBO means you’re juggling:
Pricing strategy in a constantly moving market
Legal paperwork and disclosure requirements
Marketing that goes beyond a Zillow listing and a homemade flyer
Negotiating with buyers who probably have an agent on their side
That’s like showing up to fight Mike Tyson and you’re 45 and just started boxing.
The Hidden Costs of “Saving” Commission
Sure, you might save 3% on agent fees. But if you sell your $700,000 home for $20,000–$40,000 less than market value (which is common with FSBOs), was it really a win?
Most sellers discover that what they thought they’d save in commission gets eaten up by:
Lower offers
Longer time on market
Price reductions
Buyer demands during inspection
In other words, that “savings” isn’t savings at all, it’s leaving money on the table.
What Buyers Really Think of FSBO
Let’s be honest: many buyers see FSBO homes as an opportunity to get a deal. They assume the seller is inexperienced and hope to use that to their advantage. Instead of competition driving your price up, you may end up negotiating against yourself.
When FSBO Might Work
To be fair, FSBO can sometimes work if:
The buyer is already lined up (like selling to a friend or family member).
You’re extremely experienced with contracts, pricing, and marketing.
You’re okay with potentially netting less in exchange for full control.
But for most homeowners in Northern Virginia, hiring a professional is the difference between “Just Sold” and “wish I had sold for more.” womp womp
The Bottom Line
“For Sale By Owner” sounds appealing, but the reality is harsh. Most sellers:
Walk away with less money
Deal with more stress
Take longer to sell
Meanwhile, homes sold with an experienced agent not only sell faster, but typically net more money, even after commissions are paid out.
Final Word
Selling your home is one of the biggest financial moves you’ll ever make. Don’t let a DIY experiment cost you tens of thousands. To be frank, Johnny Depp didn’t represent himself. Look how that defamation case ended. Win!
_____________________________________________________
If you’re even considering FSBO (just… don’t), or if you’re stuck in a bad listing contract with yourself, let’s sit down and run the numbers together. Contact me HERE to get your home sold. Now Let’s Go Get It!.
_____________________________________________________
