Despite the Headlines, More Sellers Than Ever Are Choosing Real Estate Agents

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 a professional guiding the process from start to finish.

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

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.

Agents bring expertise that online platforms can’t replace, especially when it comes to:

• Pricing strategy: Understanding market shifts and local demand in [Your Market].

• Marketing reach: Combining MLS exposure, social media, and local networks to attract qualified buyers.

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

• Legal and Ethical Guidance: Keeping Your Sale Compliant 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.

Trust and Relationships Matter More Than Ever

Even with all the talk about disruption, real estate remains a relationship-driven business. 

The same NAR report found: 

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

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

That means most homeowners don’t shop around. They hire the agent they already trust, or the one a friend or family member recommends.

It’s About Skill, Not Sales Pressure

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

In fact, 86% of sellers reported that their agent provided a broad range of services, including assistance with preparing the home, setting the right price, and marketing it to serious buyers.

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

1. Marketing the home effectively.

2. Pricing it competitively.

3. Selling it within a set timeframe.

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

Those numbers confirm what many sellers in Charleston already know: skill matters, but so does character.

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 agents still rely on proven methods (MLS listings, yard signs, and open houses), while layering in newer strategies like social media ads, video marketing, and 3D tours.

The best results come from a mix of both worlds: human experience backed by modern tools.

Sellers Aren’t Just Satisfied. They’re Advocates

Working with an agent doesn’t just help sellers close the deal; it also helps them navigate the process more effectively. 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 also share it. 

Selling your home is one of the most significant financial decisions you’ll ever make. Let’s make sure you do it with the correct information, the right strategy, and the proper support.