Why Choosing the Right Realtor Matters Now More Than Ever

Based on reporting by Sarah Wolak | HousingWire

In a world where online platforms promise easy sales, cash buyers tout quick closings, and discount brokerages wave the banner of savings—what do actual home sellers believe?

According to a recent Clever Real Estate survey highlighted by Sarah Wolak of HousingWire, nearly three out of four Americans who sold a home in the past five years say working with a real estate agent is the best way to go.

And I couldn’t agree more.

As we continue to navigate a rapidly changing real estate landscape—where legal shifts, interest rate spikes, and misinformation can derail even the most promising deal—having an experienced, full-service agent in your corner is no longer optional. It’s essential.

The Numbers Speak Volumes

In Clever’s national survey:

• 77% of sellers chose a traditional full-service real estate agent over any other method.

• Only 10% attempted to go it alone through For Sale By Owner (FSBO).

• Just 2% sold through an iBuyer platform like Opendoor or Offerpad.

Most telling of all? 76% of sellers said their agent was worth every penny.

Even as commissions face public scrutiny and negotiation models evolve, the core truth remains: trusted guidance adds real value.

What About Cheaper Alternatives?

Discount brokerages and corporate cash buyers are often marketed as hassle-free solutions—but many sellers who took those routes weren’t satisfied. In fact:

• 61% of people called corporate cash buyers “scams.”

• 1 in 3 who sold through iBuyers said they’d choose a different method next time.

• Only 56% would recommend discount brokers, compared to 83% for traditional agents.

And while FSBO might seem like a way to save on commission, 66% of sellers found it to be the hardest way to sell—not to mention the slowest.

As Steve Murray of RealTrends explained, many homeowners flirt with FSBO but ultimately call in a pro to avoid costly mistakes and unnecessary stress.

The Takeaway

In a stable market, an agent is helpful. In a volatile one like today, an agent is critical.

The Clever survey shows that most sellers aren’t just looking for someone to stick a sign in the yard. They want:

• Expertise in pricing strategy

• Professional marketing and staging

• Skilled negotiation

• Legal guidance and paperwork precision

• A trusted advocate from start to finish

But not all agents are created equal.

So if you’re thinking of selling—or just curious about what your home could be worth—it’s important to interview carefully. Ask about marketing plans, local experience, and track record. Make sure you’re aligned on expectations, communication style, and pricing strategy.

Because when you hire the right Realtor, you’re not just selling your house. You’re protecting one of your largest investments and making one of life’s biggest transitions a lot less stressful.

Blog inspired by “76% of Home Sellers Say Real Estate Agents Are Absolutely Worth It,” written by Sarah Wolak for HousingWire. Full article available at housingwire.com.