Thinking about selling your home “For Sale By Owner” (FSBO) to save on agent commissions? You’re not alone — many homeowners consider FSBO because it sounds simple and cost-saving. But the data and real-world experience tell a different story: FSBO transactions are rare, and FSBO homes typically sell for substantially less than homes listed with a licensed real estate agent. If you’re selling in King County, Snohomish County, Seattle, Bothell, Kirkland, or anywhere in the Puget Sound region, here’s what the numbers say and why working with an experienced listing agent is often the smarter financial play.
The hard numbers: FSBO is shrinking — and often pays less
National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) data shows FSBOs made up only about 6% of home sales in 2024 — a record low — while roughly 90% of sellers used agent assistance. NAR also reports a persistent gap in median sale price: FSBO homes historically sell for a lower median amount than agent-assisted sales (National Association of Realtors).
Other industry analysis put the dollar difference in stark relief. Recent summaries from market analysts and broker data show FSBO median sale prices thousands of dollars below agent-assisted median prices — in some studies $50k–$95k less (depending on year and methodology). That gap reflects more than commissions; it’s about exposure, pricing strategy, negotiation, and risk management (HomeLight).
At the same time, Washington state remains an expensive market with high median prices in King County and Snohomish County. Local market reporting and NWMLS snapshots show that buyers in the Puget Sound region are shopping competitively and expect high-quality listings. That puts FSBO sellers at a disadvantage when competing against professionally marketed homes (Axios).
Top reasons FSBO homes sell for less
- Limited buyer exposure
Homes listed by agents get broad MLS distribution, syndication to Zillow/Redfin/Realtor.com, agent networks, and targeted advertising. FSBO sellers often rely on yard signs, social media posts, or for-sale-by-owner sites — channels that do not reach the depth of buyer traffic that MLS + broker networks produce. Fewer eyeballs commonly equal fewer offers and weaker final sale prices (National Association of Realtors). - Pricing errors and emotional bias
Pricing a home accurately requires local comps, timing, and market context. FSBO sellers commonly overprice out of attachment or underprice out of urgency. Mispricing leads either to long days on market or leaving money on the table. An experienced listing agent brings a data-driven pricing strategy and the ability to adapt quickly (National Association of Realtors). - Weak negotiation leverage
Agents are professional negotiators who know how to structure offers, handle escalations, and extract favorable terms (price, appraisal handling, inspection concessions, etc.). On average there are 15 negotiations in a real estate transaction. FSBO sellers negotiating directly with buyer agents may lack the leverage or tactics to maximize sale proceeds. The result: lower net sale price after concessions (HomeLight). - Perceived buyer friction
Many buyer agents warn clients of challenges presented with FSBO listings because of perceived risks — unclear disclosures, lack of representation, limited understanding of sales process, or unclear paperwork. Buyers often prefer agent-listed homes for smoother transactions, which reduces the pool of serious prospects for FSBO sellers (National Association of Realtors). - Transaction complexity & legal risk
Selling a home involves contracts, disclosures, title issues, escrow, and local regulations. Mistakes can lead to delayed closings or legal headaches. Agents manage the process daily and reduce risk — another explanation why sellers who try FSBO may eventually list with an agent. NAR found that a notable share of FSBO sellers hire agents midstream because the process is more complicated than expected (National Association of Realtors).
Common misconceptions about FSBO
- “I’ll save 5–6% in commission, so I’ll net more.”
Commission savings are real — but they’re not the whole picture. If FSBO pricing and exposure cause you to sell for tens of thousands less, the “savings” evaporate quickly. After accounting for time, staging, marketing costs, and potential price concessions, FSBO can cost more than it saves (HomeLight). - “The internet makes selling easy.”
While listing portals and social media help, the top-performing listings combine professional photography, video, MLS syndication, targeted ads, and agent networks. Technology is a tool — effective distribution and negotiation still matter (HomeLight). - “I’ll just sell to a friend or neighbor.”
Many FSBO transactions do occur between acquaintances, but that’s precisely why NAR finds so many FSBOs sold to relatives or neighbors. Those deals are exceptions, not the rule — and they don’t guarantee market value (National Association of Realtors).
What sellers in King & Snohomish Counties should do instead
- Invest in professional marketing. High-quality photography, floor plans, 3D tours, and MLS exposure matter more than ever in Puget Sound real estate searches.
- Price with data, not hope. Use local comps and a strategic pricing plan for your neighborhood (Seattle, Lynnwood, Edmonds, Kirkland, Bothell, Everett).
- Choose representation that negotiates well. The right agent can protect you through contingencies, inspections, and appraisal gaps as well as ensure you are getting top dollar.
- Weigh true net proceeds, not just commission. Run the math: what you keep after sale price differences and closing costs—not just the commission line.
- Consider hybrid options carefully. If you’re exploring flat-fee or limited-service models, vet what services are included (MLS access, marketing, negotiation support).
Final thought
FSBO seems attractive on the surface, but national data and local market realities show FSBO sellers often net less and face more stress. In high-demand, high-price markets like King County and Snohomish County, professional marketing, precise pricing, and skilled negotiation make a measurable difference.
If you’re thinking about selling—or buying—in the Puget Sound region, the Grant Team at RE/MAX Elite can walk you through realistic net-proceeds scenarios, local market strategies, and modern marketing that reaches motivated buyers. Reach out to the Grant Team (425.483.4200) to get a neighborhood-specific consultation and learn the best way to protect your equity and sell with confidence.