When homeowners think about selling, most don’t seriously consider selling on their own—and the data reflects that.
From time to time, the idea of For Sale By Owner (FSBO) comes up. Usually it’s because someone wonders whether technology has made the process easier, or whether skipping an agent might save money.
To separate perception from reality, it helps to look at the numbers. The 2025 Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers published by the National Association of REALTORS provides a clear, data-backed look at how FSBO compares to working with a REALTOR® today.
Quick Summary: While For Sale By Owner (FSBO) sales get occasional attention, they represent only a small portion of today’s real estate market. According to the 2025 Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers, most homeowners choose to work with a REALTOR®, and homes sold with professional representation tend to achieve higher sale prices. Even in FSBO transactions, buyers often rely on agent representation to navigate contracts, inspections, and risk. This video breaks down what the data shows—and how these national trends play out locally in Champaign County.
How Common Is FSBO, Really?
Despite the attention FSBO sometimes gets, it represents a very small share of the market.
According to the 2025 report:
- Only about 7% of homes were sold as For Sale By Owner
- Roughly 9 out of 10 sellers chose to work with a real estate agent
That small share explains why most homeowners don’t encounter this decision often in real life. Even in a digital-first world, the overwhelming majority of sellers still choose professional representation when it comes time to sell.
The Price Difference Is Significant
One of the most eye-opening findings in the report is the difference in final sale price.
- Median FSBO sale price: approximately $310,000
- Median agent-assisted sale price: approximately $405,000
That gap is meaningful.
This doesn’t mean every FSBO home sells for less—but statistically, homes sold with professional representation tend to achieve higher prices, even after accounting for commission. Strategic pricing, broader exposure, and experienced negotiation all play a role.
Most FSBO Sellers Already Know Their Buyer
Another important piece of context:
- Many FSBO sellers sold to someone they already knew, such as a friend, neighbor, or relative.
FSBO is often used when:
- A buyer is already lined up
- The seller prioritizes simplicity
- Maximizing price isn’t the primary goal
When a seller doesn’t already have a buyer, reaching the full pool of qualified buyers becomes far more challenging without MLS exposure and professional marketing.
FSBO Transactions Still Often Involve an Agent—On the Buyer Side
Something I see in real life that aligns closely with the data is this:
FSBO doesn’t always mean “no agents involved.”
I’ve represented buyers who purchased FSBO properties, and in those situations, buyers often say the same thing:
“We don’t want to be in a transaction where no one knows what they’re doing.”
Even when a seller chooses not to have representation, buyers frequently want an advocate—someone to:
- Review contract terms
- Navigate inspections and repairs
- Manage timelines and contingencies
- Reduce legal and financial risk
Real estate transactions have many moving parts, and professional guidance on at least one side of the deal can make a significant difference.
Why Sellers Choose an Agent
When sellers were asked why they chose to work with a REALTOR®, the most common reasons included:
- Help pricing the home competitively
- Assistance negotiating offers
- Managing paperwork and legal steps
- Guidance through inspections, appraisals, and timing
Selling a home isn’t just about getting it online—it’s about managing complexity while protecting your equity.
How This Data Shows Up Locally
While FSBO data isn’t tracked perfectly at the local level, these national trends absolutely show up here in Champaign County.
Local buyers are highly informed. They’re watching listings closely, comparing homes, and paying close attention to price, condition, and value. Homes that are strategically priced, well-prepared, and fully exposed to the market tend to perform more strongly than homes trying to navigate the process alone.
So… Which Option Is Right for You?
FSBO can make sense in very specific situations—particularly when a seller already has a buyer and a clear plan.
But for homeowners who want:
- Maximum exposure
- Strong negotiation
- Professional guidance
- A smoother, lower-stress experience
The data—and what I see locally—continues to support working with a REALTOR®.
My Take as a Local REALTOR®
Statistics are helpful, but real estate is never one-size-fits-all.
If you’re thinking about selling—whether this spring, later this year, or down the road—I’m always happy to talk through your options and help you decide what makes the most sense for your goals.
No pressure. Just good information and thoughtful guidance.
Helpful Resources
The National Association of REALTORS® 2025 Profile of Home Buyers & Sellers:
About the Author:
Jayme Ahlden is a REALTOR® Broker with Coldwell Banker Real Estate Group, serving Mahomet, Champaign, Urbana, Savoy, and surrounding Central Illinois communities. Jayme focuses on education-first guidance and helping clients navigate complex real estate decisions with clarity and confidence.
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