Selling Without a Real Estate Agent: the Pros and Cons

With mortgage rates rising and people considering downsizing, many people are trying to cut costs anywhere they can, including saving on expenses such as agent commissions. But selling a home can be a daunting task, especially if you’re considering doing it without the help of a real estate agent. 

If you are considering selling your home without an agent in Tasmania, it can be done successfully with the right preparation and mindset but you should first consider whether it is the right choice for you. In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of selling a home without a real estate agent, as well as tips and strategies to help you make the most of your sale. We also outline why it’s important to engage a lawyer early in the process if you decide that selling without a real estate agent is right for you.

Pros of Selling a Home Without a Real Estate Agent

• Save money on commissions – One of the biggest advantages of selling a home without a real estate agent is that you can save significant amounts of money on commissions. In Tasmania, real estate agents charge a commission of anywhere from around 2-4% of the sale price depending on your location and the experience of the agent. Keeping more of the sale proceeds is often the number one factor in people choosing to sell their own home without an agent.
• More control over the sale – Another advantage of selling without a real estate agent is that you have more control over the sale. When you work with an agent, they typically handle all aspects of the sale, from listing the property to showing it to potential buyers. By selling your home, you have the opportunity to be more involved and make decisions that you feel are best for your property. This includes styling the property the way that you think presents it in the best light.
• Greater flexibility – Selling your home on your own may allow you to be more flexible with the sale. For example, you can decide how you market the property and when you hold open homes.

Cons of Selling a Home Without a Real Estate Agent

• Less Exposure – One of the biggest downsides of selling a home without a real estate agent is that you may not have as much exposure to potential buyers. Real estate agents have access to a wide network of buyers, as well as knowledge of where to list the property to attract the most attention. Without these resources, it can be more difficult to find buyers for your property. Agents often have many buyers looking to snap up the right property as soon as it goes on the market. Often they are working with buyers to find the right match for them (which may mean a sale for you!)
• Less Expertise – Agents are experts and their expertise are what you are paying for. Real estate agents are trained professionals who know the ins and outs of the sale process and can help you navigate the complexities of buying and selling a home. An agent will put thought into styling the property and what purchasers are most likely to look for in an advertisement, search criteria and what they will pay attention to in the 15 minutes of an inspection. Without an agent, you may have to rely on your own knowledge or research, which can be time-consuming and challenging if you don’t have the experience in the sale process.
• Greater Stress – Marketing a property is a lot of work. Selling a home on your own can also be more stressful than working with an agent. The sale process can be complex and time-consuming, and without the help of an agent, you may have to handle everything on your own. On top of that, it can also be overwhelming, especially if you’re not familiar with the process or if you’re juggling other responsibilities such as a full time job.
• Dealing with Purchasers – If you are selling without an agent then you have to manage all communication with purchasers yourself. Purchasers will try and contact you at all times of the day and night depending on when they are available. A good agent is a people person and a good communicator. You should also be prepared for purchasers to give you a grilling about the condition of the property and ask questions they wouldn’t usually expect an agent to know the answers to.

Tips for Selling a Home Without a Real Estate Agent

• Price it Right – One of the most important things you can do when selling your home without a real estate agent is to price it correctly. This means setting a price that is competitive with other homes in your area, but also one that reflects the value of your property. Be sure to do your research and consult with a local real estate professional or appraiser to get an idea of what your home is worth.
• Prepare Your Home for Sale – Another key to selling your home without a real estate agent is to prepare your home for sale. This means making any necessary repairs and updates, cleaning and decluttering, and staging your home to make.

If You Are Selling Without A Real Estate Agent Speak To A Lawyer First

In Tasmania, it is common for sellers to approach a lawyer to assist with their sale only after they have actually sold the property. The Real Estate Agent generally takes care of creating a draft Contract of Sale to present to potential purchasers. That Contract will generally attach all appropriate government searches about the property. Without an agent to help you navigate the legal process, it’s important to have a good lawyer who can assist you with all legal matters, including drafting the contract for sale.

A lawyer can help you understand the legal language of the contract, ensure that all the necessary disclosures are made, and represent your interests in the sale. They can also help you understand your rights and obligations as a seller, and ensure that the contract is legally binding and enforceable. We always recommend that vendors have a lawyer review the contract before they sign it but this is especially important if you decide to sell without an agent. For more information on the conveyancing process, read our article about Everything You Need to Know About Conveyancing in Tasmania.

If you are still thinking about selling your home without an agent in Tasmania, call us now to discuss the ins and outs of the process and our fixed price packages for assisting your with the sale.