Why 89% of Homebuyers and Sellers Choose to Work with Real Estate Agents

Let’s get real — Do you have to use a real estate agent when buying or selling a home? The answer, of course, is no. You can absolutely go it alone, and plenty of people do just that every year.

With the internet at your fingertips, you can search for homes, look up property values, and even try your hand at negotiating deals. But here’s the thing: Even with all that info, a whopping 89% of people still choose to work with a professional, according to a report from the National Association of Realtors.

With all the buzz about changes in the real estate industry, let’s rewind a bit and revisit the basics: the difference between a buyer’s agent and a seller’s agent—and what they can really do for you.

Buyer’s Agents

Sure, sites like Zillow can help you find your dream home by letting you browse listings online, and they’ll even ping you when there’s an open house. And hey, if you’re not already working with someone, they can connect you with a local real estate pro, too.

But a buyer’s agent? They’re your secret weapon—someone who’s not just informed, but invested in your journey. Think of them as your personal real estate advocate, laser-focused on your needs and interests.

Realtor.com listed 111 things buyer’s agents do throughout a transaction, but let’s cut to the chase and highlight some key moves:

Finding the Perfect Home

Browsing online is fun, but can you really tell which house is a hidden gem and which one’s masking a ton of issues? According to the 2023 Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers, 89% of buyers used an agent to purchase their home, with half of them saying the most valuable service was helping them find the right property.

Your agent brings their local market knowledge to the table, helping you find properties that match your wish list. They’ll set up showings, share insights, and help you weigh the pros and cons of each option.

Negotiating Price and Terms

Sure, you could try to haggle your way to a deal, but without an agent, you’re missing out on the finesse of negotiation. Negotiations can happen at multiple stages—getting the offer accepted, and after inspections and appraisals, for example.

The NAR report underscores that agents are key in negotiating better contract terms and handling the complexities of the sale. A savvy buyer’s agent knows how to sweeten the deal in ways you might not even consider—like securing repairs or getting the seller to cover closing costs.

Navigating Paperwork

The paperwork involved in buying a home? It’s a legal maze. No wonder 90% of buyers found their agent to be an invaluable resource, making sure every “i” is dotted and every “t” is crossed.

Seller’s Agents

On the flip side, a seller’s agent (also known as a listing agent) is your go-to for selling your property quickly and at the best price. They’re the ones who’ll market your home, negotiate with buyers, and manage the nitty-gritty of the sale.

Here’s a glimpse at what a seller’s agent does:

Pricing the Home Correctly

Pricing your home is part science, part art. Get it wrong, and you might scare off buyers or leave money on the table. The right price attracts serious buyers and maximizes your profit.

Even when properties were flying off the market, For Sale By Owner (FSBO) homes sold for significantly less than agent-assisted homes. In 2022, FSBOs had a median price of $310,000, compared to $405,000 for agent-assisted homes, according to NAR.

Seller’s agents blend data, experience, and market savvy to price your home strategically—something an online calculator just can’t replicate.

Marketing the Property

A seller’s agent crafts a comprehensive marketing plan that’s designed to showcase your home and attract serious buyers—not just window shoppers. This plan includes professional photos, videos, a social media blitz, open houses, and sometimes even staging to make your home irresistible.

Curious about what our marketing plan looks like? Check it out here or drop me a line.

Handling Offers and Negotiations

Without an agent, you’re the one juggling offers, counter-offers, and everything in between. Sounds empowering, right? Until you’re up against a buyer who’s playing hardball. That’s why 87% of sellers would definitely or probably recommend their agent for future services.

A seller’s agent handles the back-and-forth, ensuring you don’t buckle under pressure or get shortchanged. They also manage the entire sale process beyond just getting an offer accepted—from coordinating inspectors and appraisers to making sure you’re on track for closing day.

Final Thoughts

It’s tempting to think you can save money by going it alone. But when buying or selling a property, the stakes are high. A skilled real estate agent isn’t just another expense—they’re an investment. They bring a level of expertise and market knowledge that can save you time, stress, and money.

And that’s the kind of investment that can make all the difference.