So You’re Thinking of Selling Your Home on Your Own? Let’s Talk.

Penny Rudderham
Jul 4
2 min read

So You’re Thinking of Selling Your Home on Your Own? Let’s Talk.

You’ve printed off a "For Sale" sign, watched a few TikToks, and you’re feeling confident.“Why pay commission when I can do it myself?”Totally understandable — but here’s the truth bomb: DIY selling often ends in disappointment and lost dollars.

Let’s dive into why selling your house without a pro is usually a bad idea (with a side of sass, of course).

1. You Don’t Know What You Don’t Know

Real estate isn’t a yard sign and a prayer. It’s legal clauses, disclosures, buyer financing, inspections, and complex negotiations. One wrong move could cost you a lawsuit, not just a few thousand bucks.

2. You’re Probably Pricing It Wrong

You love your home — but buyers don’t care about your DIY shelving or sentimental garden gnome. Overpricing = it sits.Underpricing = money left on the table. Pricing right is part strategy, part experience — and no, Zolo estimates don’t count.

3. You’re Not Getting the Exposure You Think

Posting on Facebook Marketplace is not the same as full-scale marketing.Real estate agents use MLS, targeted social ads, open houses, staging, SEO, email lists, and professional photography. You? You're relying on cousin Todd's camera skills.

4. Negotiating Is Awkward and Emotional

You’re emotionally attached. Buyers want a deal. Cue: tears, tension, and arguments about why your shag carpet adds "vintage charm."A Realtor acts as your calm, experienced middleman (or woman) who knows when to push and when to pivot.

5. Buyers Know You’re Not Paying Commission — and They Want That Too

Here’s what nobody tells you: Buyers will factor in your lack of commission into their offer. They know you’re saving 5% — and they want that reflected in the price. So you save nothing. Zero. Zilch.

6. Deals Can Fall Apart — Fast

A sale isn’t a sale until it closes. Appraisals, inspections, financing, lawyers — any hiccup can derail your deal.A Realtor is your deal-wrangler, therapist, and crisis manager all rolled into one.