Beware of For Sale by Owner

Lisa Wenzel July 5, 2021

 
In a sellers’ real estate market, some homeowners might be tempted to try to sell their home on their own instead of working with a real estate broker. This is commonly known as For Sale by Owner, or FSBO. When the inventory of homes for sale is as low as it is today, buyers are eager to purchase virtually any house that comes to market. This makes it even more tempting to those selling their own home. Some sellers think selling their house will be quick and easy and see today’s market as an opportunity to list their home FSBO. We will explain why that’s a big mistake and may actually cost you more in the long run.
 

For Sale by Owner Homes Typically Sell for Less

According to the Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers published by the National Association of Realtors (NAR), 41% of homeowners who tried to sell their own home as an FSBO did so to avoid paying a commission or fee. In reality, selling your own home likely means you’ll net a lower profit than when you sell with the help of a real estate agent.
 
The National Association of Realtors report explains, “FSBOs typically sell for less than the selling price of other homes; FSBO homes sold at a median of $217,900 in 2020 (up from $200,000 in 2019), and still far lower than the median selling price of all homes at $242,300. Agent-assisted homes sold for a median of $295,000…Sellers who began as an FSBO, then ended up working with an agent, received 98 percent of the asking price, but had to reduce their price the most before arriving at a final listing price.”
 
When the seller knew the buyer, that amount was even lower, coming in at $176,700 (See graph below):
 
 
That’s a lot of money to risk losing when you list your home FSBO – far more than what you would save on commission or other fees. Despite the advantages, sellers have in today’s market, it is crucial to have the support of an expert to guide you through the process. Real estate professionals are trained negotiators with a lot of housing market insights that average homeowners may never have. A real estate agent’s expertise can alleviate much of the stress of selling your house and help you close the best possible deal when you do.
 

Is For Sale by Owner Right for You?

If you were thinking about selling your own home, you may want to rethink the FSBO process. Odds are, you stand to gain the most by working with a knowledgeable and experienced real estate agent. Listing a home for sale on your own leaves you to manage the entire transaction by yourself. Why do that when you can hire a real estate agent and still make the same amount of money? Before you decide to take on the challenge of selling your house on your own, contact a real estate agent at Wenzel Select Properties to discuss your options.
 
Wenzel Select Properties is located at 4941 Main Street in Downers Grove, Illinois. Our real estate office is in the heart of downtown Downers Grove. We are just minutes away from Interstates 88, 355, 55, 290, and 294. Wenzel Select Properties real estate brokers are available to meet with you 7 days a week – Monday through Sunday. Call a real estate agent from Wenzel Select Properties today at (630) 430-4790.

Recent Blog Posts

Stay up to date on the latest real estate trends.

WSP Listings

2816 Maryville Drive: A One-of-a-Kind McHenry Estate With Room for Possibilities

Some homes offer a little more space, a few extra amenities, or a larger garage. Then there are properties that were created for an entirely different kind of lifestyl… Read more
The Northwest Side Just Caught Up to Downers Grove on Price Per Square Foot. Here's the Catch.
August 2026 WSP Newsletter

Welcome to the Wenzel Select Properties monthly newsletter! We're excited to bring you the latest updates in real estate, market trends, and a showcase of our featured… Read more
July 2026 WSP Newsletter

Welcome to the Wenzel Select Properties monthly newsletter! We're excited to bring you the latest updates in real estate, market trends, and a showcase of our featured… Read more
June 2026 WSP Newsletter

Welcome to the Wenzel Select Properties monthly newsletter! We're excited to bring you the latest updates in real estate, market trends, and a showcase of our featured… Read more
May 2026 WSP Newsletter

Welcome to the Wenzel Select Properties monthly newsletter! We're excited to bring you the latest updates in real estate, market trends, and a showcase of our feature… Read more
Ladies Day & Night Out in Downtown Downers Grove: Shop, Dine and Support Local Schools - September 24, 2026

Looking for a fun way to get out with friends while supporting local schools? Ladies Day & Night Out: Schools Just Wanna Have Funds! is coming to Downtown Downers Grov… Read more
Ann Sather Left Belmont Avenue This Summer. Here's What's Replacing an Entire Block.
Kiwanis Classic: Putt Putt for a Purpose Coming to Downers Grove - September 12, 2026

Looking for a fun way to spend a Saturday afternoon while supporting a great local cause? The Kiwanis Club of Downers Grove is hosting its first annual Kiwanis Classic… Read more
View All

Work With Us

We pride ourselves in providing personalized solutions that bring our clients closer to their dream properties and enhance their long-term wealth. Contact us today to discuss all your real estate needs!

Contact Us
Get in Touch
Contact Details

Wenzel Select Properties

(630) 430-4790

[email protected]



4941 Main St
Downers Grove IL 60515