Why Sellers Still Choose Real Estate Agents in 2025

If you've seen the headlines lately, you might think no one trusts real estate agents anymore. Between the big National Association of Realtors (NAR) lawsuit, changes to commission rules, and endless online debates, it's easy to assume the traditional real estate model is falling apart.

But here's what the data actually shows: according to the NAR 2025 Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers, a record 91% of home sellers worked with a real estate agent this year.

That's the highest share ever recorded.

Even after a year of controversy, the share of sellers who go the for-sale-by-owner (FSBO) route is down to an all-time low 5%. That means nearly every home sold in 2025 had real estate professionals guiding the process from start to finish.

And there are several reasons why, starting with the bottom line: homes sold with an estate agent consistently sell for more money.

1. Agent-Assisted Home Sales Sell for More

The same NAR report shows that FSBO homes sold for a median price of $360,000, compared to $425,000 median for agent-assisted homes.

That's a $65,000 difference.

Real estate agents bring expertise that online platforms can't replace, especially when it comes to:

• Pricing strategy: Understanding real estate trends and local demand in Dallas-Fort Worth through a comprehensive market analysis, including the sale-to-list price ratio.

• Property marketing: Combining MLS listing, social media, and local networks to attract a qualified buyer pool, all within an effective marketing budget.

• Negotiation skills: Managing multiple offers, inspection requests, and counteroffers to protect your bottom line.

• Legal and ethical guidance: Keeping your real estate transaction compliant with local laws and your stress level low.

Selling a home isn't just about finding a buyer. It's about avoiding the mistakes that can cost you time, money, or peace of mind. This is where a top agent's home selling expertise truly shines.

2. Trust and Relationships Matter More Than Ever

Even with all the talk about disruption, the real estate industry is still a relationship business.

The same NAR report found:

• 66% of sellers worked with an estate agent they already knew or who came from a referral.

• 80% only interviewed one agent before deciding to hire a Realtor.

That means most homeowners don't shop around when hiring a real estate agent. They choose the agent they already trust, or the one a friend or family member recommends.

3. It's About Skill, Not Sales Pressure

The listing agents today's sellers choose are full-service professionals who take the heavy lifting off your plate.

In fact, 86% of sellers said their real estate agent provided a broad range of professional services, including help improving curb appeal, setting the right asking price, and marketing it to serious buyers.

When sellers were asked what they valued most, they ranked:

1. Property marketing effectiveness.

2. Pricing it competitively using a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA).

3. Selling it within a specific number of days on market.

And when it came to choosing which real estate professional to hire, reputation ranked first, followed by trustworthiness and honesty.

Those numbers confirm what many sellers in Dallas-Fort Worth already know: local market expertise matters, but so does character.

4. Tech Tools Help, But People Still Close the Deal

Technology has changed how buyers search and how listings get promoted. But the tools are only as good as the person using them.

The majority of real estate agents still rely on proven methods (Multiple Listing Service, yard signs, and open houses), while layering in newer strategies like social media ads, video marketing, and virtual tours.

The best results come from a mix of both worlds: human experience backed by modern tools. This includes professional photography to showcase your home's best features and maximize its market value.

5. Sellers Aren't Just Satisfied. They're Advocates

Working with a real estate professional doesn't just help sellers close the deal. It builds lasting trust.

According to NAR's data:

• 87% of sellers said they would recommend their agent.

• 65% have already done so.

• Nearly 1 in 4 sellers have referred their agent four or more times in the past year.

When sellers have a positive experience, they don't just remember it. They share it, often praising their Realtor's response time, market knowledge, and ability to navigate complex market conditions.

Selling your home is one of the biggest financial decisions you'll ever make. The right real estate professional can help you understand current market trends, set an optimal listing price, and maximize your home sale proceeds. Let's make sure you do it with the right information, the right strategy, and the right support from a top agent with proven local market expertise.

When you decide to sell, consider these key factors:

• The importance of a well-crafted listing agreement

• The value of professional service in navigating the transaction

• The potential need for a real estate attorney in complex situations

• The impact of transaction volume on an agent's experience and network

By choosing the right listing agent, you're not just hiring someone to sell your home – you're partnering with a professional who can guide you through one of life's most significant transactions with expertise and care.

Sources: BAM 1 , BAM 2,  NAR