Everyone’s Wrong: Sellers Still Hire Agents Big Time

Everyone Says Sellers Don’t Trust Agents Anymore. The Numbers Say They’re Full of It.

If you’ve been paying attention to the headlines, you’d think real estate agents are on life support. Lawsuits. Commission changes. Armchair experts all over social media.

But while everyone’s busy yelling online, here’s what’s actually happening:

91% of home sellers hired an agent this year.
That’s the highest it’s ever been.

FSBOs? Down to just 5% the lowest ever.

So for all the noise about disruption, guess what sellers are actually doing? Hiring pros. Because they want results. And they want to walk away with more money in their pocket, not less.

Let’s break this down.

1. Homes Sold With Agents Net More. Period.

NAR’s latest data says FSBOs sold for a median of $360K.

Agent-assisted homes? $425K.

That is a $65,000 mistake if you try to DIY your sale.

Here’s why:

Pricing strategy: Data driven, not guesswork.
Marketing reach: Maximum exposure.
Negotiation power: Better terms, better price.
Legal and compliance: Protect the deal.

Bottom line: DIY sellers leave money on the table. Every time.

2. Trust Isn’t Dead It’s Just Exclusive

66% of sellers worked with an agent they already knew.

80% interviewed only one agent.

This is a relationship and reputation game.

3. The Best Agents Don’t Sell. They Execute.

86% of sellers said their agent helped prepare, price, and market their home.

What sellers value most:

Strong marketing
Smart pricing
Speed to close

Top factors in choosing an agent:

Reputation, trust, honesty.

4. Tech Doesn’t Replace Us It Elevates Us

AI and portals help but they don’t negotiate, strategize, or close deals.

Great agents use tech to amplify results, not replace skill.

5. Satisfied Sellers Don’t Stay Quiet. They Refer.

87% of sellers would recommend their agent.

65% already have.

Nearly 25% referred their agent four or more times last year.

That only happens when the client experience matches the pitch.

If you're selling in 2025, your move needs to be surgical, strategic, and guided by someone with a proven system and results.

Let’s make sure you're the one cashing out while everyone else is still talking.