Selling Without an Agent? The Numbers Say Otherwise.
For some homeowners, selling their house without an agent—also known as For-Sale-by-Owner (FSBO)—can seem like a way to save money. But according to the 2024 NAR Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers, the real cost of skipping a professional is becoming clearer than ever. The FSBO vs. real estate agent 2024 data shows that the majority of sellers who go it alone face financial setbacks, paperwork stress, and timeline delays.
At Realty ONE Group Esteem, we’re here to show Kansas City sellers that there’s a better way—with expert guidance, better outcomes, and less risk.
Get the full 2024 NAR report here.
90% of Sellers Used a Real Estate Agent in 2024
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Just 6% of sellers listed their home without an agent, marking a historic low
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90% chose to sell with a real estate professional, up from 89% last year
📍What this tells us:
The overwhelming majority of sellers recognize the value of professional representation. And in a dynamic market like Kansas City, a trusted agent can be the difference between just selling and selling well.
FSBO Sellers Face Key Challenges
The top three struggles for FSBO sellers were:
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17% – Getting the price right
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13% – Selling within the desired timeframe
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10% – Understanding and completing legal paperwork
📍Why this matters:
These aren’t minor missteps—they’re deal-breakers. Pricing too high can lead to extended time on market. Pricing too low can leave money on the table. And paperwork errors? They can derail a sale entirely.
At Realty ONE Group Esteem, our agents handle every step—from pricing strategy to negotiation to closing coordination—so you don’t have to guess, stress, or second-guess.
FSBO Homes Sell for Less—Money Left on the Table
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In 2023, FSBO homes sold for a median of $380,000
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Homes sold with an agent had a median sale price of $435,000
📍That’s a difference of $55,000—and a major reason FSBO sellers are leaving money behind.
📍Why sellers choose Realty ONE Group Esteem:
Our agents know the Kansas City market, understand buyer psychology, and market your home with intention. From professional photos and listing descriptions to negotiation tactics and timeline management, we help sellers maximize their return—not just minimize their commission.
Most FSBOs Sold to Friends or Family
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38% of FSBO sellers sold to someone they already knew
📍What that means:
Many FSBO transactions aren’t truly “public sales”—they’re private agreements between friends, family, or neighbors. But that leaves the remaining sellers navigating pricing, showings, inspections, and contracts without professional support.
Realty ONE Group Esteem agents ensure every seller, no matter the buyer, has an experienced advocate protecting their interests.
FSBO vs. Realty ONE Group Esteem: The Clear Advantage
| Key Area | FSBO | With Realty ONE Group Esteem |
|---|---|---|
| Median Sale Price | $380,000 | $435,000 |
| Help With Pricing | Self-researched | Expert CMA + market strategy |
| Marketing Exposure | Limited | MLS, social, web, and agent network |
| Time Management | On your own | Fully coordinated showing + closing process |
| Paperwork & Legal Guidance | DIY | Handled by licensed professionals |
| Satisfaction | Highly variable | Backed by strong referral & repeat rate |
Final Thoughts on FSBO vs. Real Estate Agent 2024
If you’re thinking of selling your Kansas City home, the 2024 FSBO vs. real estate agent statistics speak for themselves: working with a professional not only simplifies the process—it strengthens your bottom line.
At Realty ONE Group Esteem, we don’t just list homes. We open doors, create possibilities, and help you move forward with clarity and confidence.
Let’s Talk About What’s Possible
If you’re ready to see what a realtor can do for you, we’re prepared to help. Contact Realty ONE Group Esteem today, and let’s turn your real estate goals into reality—one home, one dream, one life at a time.
🔍 Start Your Real Estate Journey Today
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