Should I sell my home as FSBO or hire an agent?

Selling a home on your own in Sarasota can seem appealing at first, especially with the amount of information available online. However, most sellers quickly discover that exposure, negotiation leverage, and contract management are where professional representation matters most. Today’s buyers are more cautious, more informed, and highly sensitive to pricing, condition, and risk. Insurance availability, inspection findings, appraisal challenges, and HOA or condo requirements can significantly impact a transaction and are often underestimated until issues arise. Without a clear strategy, homes may sit longer on the market, attract less qualified buyers, or require unnecessary price reductions and concessions. An experienced agent helps position the home correctly from the start, manage buyer expectations, navigate inspections and repairs, and protect leverage throughout negotiations. In a shifting market, the structure, guidance, and market insight provided often preserve far more value than the cost of representation, leading to smoother transactions and stronger overall outcomes for homeowners.