FSBO vs. Agent: Who Really Gets the Better Deal in Rochester, MI?

When it comes time to sell your home, you might be tempted to go the For Sale By Owner (FSBO) route to save on commission costs. It sounds appealing—skip the agent, list it yourself, and keep more of the profit. But in reality, what you save in commission fees, you often lose in sale price, time, and risk.

If you’re considering selling your home in Rochester, MI, here’s what to know before deciding whether FSBO or working with a professional real estate agent is the smarter move.

Sale Price Matters More Than Commission

According to data from the National Association of Realtors (NAR), FSBO homes consistently sell for less—typically around 26% below agent-assisted sales. That gap is far greater than the typical 5–6% commission most agents charge.

The reason is simple: agents know how to strategically price homes, market them effectively, and negotiate to get the best possible offer. Even after commission, homeowners who list with an experienced agent almost always net more money than those who try to sell on their own.

In a competitive market like Rochester, where presentation and pricing precision make all the difference, professional representation isn’t an expense—it’s an investment in your bottom line.

What a Real Estate Agent Actually Brings to the Table

Selling a home is more than putting a sign in the yard or uploading photos online. A skilled agent provides strategy, marketing expertise, and transactional guidance that most FSBO sellers simply can’t match.

Key advantages of working with an agent include:

• Accurate Pricing: Agents use local market data and experience to set a price that attracts qualified buyers while maximizing value.

• Professional Marketing: From high-quality photography and video to MLS exposure and social media promotion, your listing gets seen by more buyers.

• Negotiation and Protection: Agents handle multiple offers, contract details, inspections, and closing logistics to protect your interests and minimize risk.

When you sell FSBO, you’re responsible for all of it—pricing, marketing, buyer screening, negotiations, disclosures, and paperwork. A single mistake can cost thousands or even derail the deal.

The Risks of Going FSBO

Selling your own home may sound simple, but it’s often more complicated and time-consuming than expected. FSBO sellers take on every responsibility that an agent would normally manage, including:

• Screening potential buyers and verifying financial readiness

• Coordinating showings and managing schedules

• Reviewing and negotiating offers

• Overseeing home inspections and repair requests

• Handling all legal and disclosure documentation

Without professional experience, it’s easy to make errors that lead to lost deals, delayed closings, or legal exposure after the sale.

When FSBO Might Actually Make Sense

There are limited situations where FSBO can work well—usually when you already have a buyer lined up, such as a family member or investor. If you have experience with real estate contracts and understand the process, it may be a viable option.

But for most homeowners, especially those selling in Rochester’s competitive housing market, working with an experienced real estate agent offers far greater advantages. You’ll likely sell faster, attract stronger offers, and avoid unnecessary stress.

The Bottom Line

While selling FSBO can seem like an easy way to save money, data and experience consistently show that working with an agent results in a better financial outcome. A trusted local professional can help you navigate pricing, marketing, negotiations, and legal steps to ensure a smooth sale from start to finish.

If you’re thinking about selling your home in Rochester, MI, and want to know what it could sell for in today’s market, The Delia Group is here to help. Even if you’re just exploring your options, we can provide a no-pressure consultation to help you make an informed decision—based on facts, not guesswork.