Selling real estate privately or with an agent: What are the advantages of professional support?
For many owners, selling a property is one of the most important decisions in their lives. This often raises the question of whether the sale should be conducted privately or with the support of a real estate agent. Both approaches have their advantages and disadvantages—but professional support often offers decisive advantages that can facilitate the sales process and lead to a better result. In this article, we show you what aspects to consider when selling real estate and why working with an experienced agent can be a sensible choice.
Overview: Selling real estate privately or with an agent
When selling real estate, owners generally have two options: selling on their own or with the support of a real estate agent. Both options have individual requirements and offer different opportunities and risks. The decision often depends on your own experience, the time frame available, and your personal goals. A detailed comparison helps you find the right path.
The challenges of selling real estate privately
When you sell your property privately, you take on all the tasks yourself—from market analysis and marketing to contract processing. Without specialist knowledge and experience, this can quickly lead to uncertainty, for example when it comes to pricing or legal arrangements. In addition, the sales process requires a lot of time and organization. Mistakes or omissions can have a negative impact on the success of the sale.
Advantages of professional support from a real estate agent
A real estate agent brings comprehensive market knowledge, experience, and a broad network to the table. This makes it possible to present the property in the best possible light and achieve a realistic selling price. Professional support takes the pressure off owners and ensures a structured, efficient process. In addition, sellers benefit from targeted marketing and greater reach.
Tasks of a real estate agent in the sales process
Real estate agents take on numerous tasks—from property valuation to creating exposés, checking documents or obtaining missing documents from authorities or property management companies, assisting with the preparation of energy performance certificates, dimensioned floor plans, correct living space calculations, extracts from the public register of encumbrances, etc., to professionally conducting viewings. They negotiate with interested parties, refer financial advisors to prospective buyers, assist with credit checks, and accompany the contract processing. They also provide advice on legal issues and the referral of tradespeople or renovation cost estimates. This means that owners and prospective buyers receive comprehensive support throughout the entire sales process.
Costs and effort: What should be considered?
Selling through a real estate agent incurs additional costs, usually in the form of a commission. However, this investment can pay off in the form of a higher sale price and a faster and more secure transaction. Private sellers save on the commission, but have to factor in significantly more time and effort. A transparent calculation helps you make the right decision.
Legal certainty and contract processing
Selling real estate involves numerous legal requirements, from drawing up the purchase agreement to handing over the property. Real estate agents ensure legal certainty and clarify any open questions to avoid mistakes. They work closely with notaries and other experts to ensure that everything runs smoothly. This means that both sellers and buyers are on the safe side.
When is it worth selling real estate with a real estate agent?
Professional support from a real estate agent is particularly worthwhile if you lack expertise, time, or experience. An experienced real estate agent is also a valuable help when it comes to complex properties or special market conditions. Anyone who values a stress-free process and optimal results will benefit from working with a real estate agent. Ultimately, your individual situation will determine which path is the right one.