National Trivia Day: Why Selling Your Home with a Realtor (Like Me!) Beats Going It Alone
Happy National Trivia Day! Today, let’s tackle one of the most common myths about real estate: Can you sell your home on your own and still get the best results? As a homeowner, you might have heard that going For Sale By Owner (FSBO) will save you money and be just as effective as working with a realtor. But as an Emmy-winning journalist turned real estate professional, I’m here to show you why that’s not the case—especially when you choose someone like me, who brings a unique set of skills to the table.
Let’s break down the rumors vs. the reality of selling your home, and why having a realtor with an exceptional marketing background is your best move.
Trivia Question 1: Does Selling FSBO Save You Money?
Rumor: Selling FSBO means you avoid paying a realtor’s commission, so you’ll save more money.
Truth: While skipping the commission might seem like a financial win, FSBO homes often sell for less than those listed by realtors.
Here’s why:
Pricing Expertise Matters: Homes that are overpriced can sit on the market for months, while underpriced homes leave money on the table. Realtors like me use in-depth market analysis to ensure your home is priced perfectly for the RGV market.
Better Offers: According to the National Association of Realtors, homes sold with a realtor net an average of 26% more than FSBO homes. That’s a significant difference—far more than the cost of commission.
As someone who has spent years analyzing trends and data as a journalist in the Valley, I know how to position your property competitively in our unique market.
Trivia Question 2: Can You Handle All the Marketing Yourself?
Rumor: Selling a home is as simple as listing it online and waiting for offers to roll in.
Truth: Effective marketing is a game-changer—and not all realtors are created equal.
Here’s where I stand out:
A Journalist’s Eye for Storytelling: During my time as a field reporter in the Rio Grande Valley, I learned how to craft compelling stories that grab attention. I apply that same approach to your home, highlighting its most unique and attractive features to draw in buyers.
Advanced Marketing Strategies: Many agents rely on basic listing platforms, but I bring a journalist’s knowledge of multimedia marketing. From stunning photography and drone videography to social media campaigns that outperform traditional TV ratings, I use every tool at my disposal to showcase your home.
Local Expertise: Having reported across the entire Valley—from McAllen to Harlingen and beyond—I know the neighborhoods, schools, and communities that make this region special. That insight helps me market your home to the right buyers.
Trivia Question 3: Does Selling with a Realtor Mean a Faster Sale?
Rumor: FSBO homes sell just as quickly as those listed with a realtor.
Truth: Homes listed with a realtor typically sell faster, and that’s especially true when you work with someone who understands both the market and how to reach buyers effectively.
Here’s how my experience gives your home the edge:
Tailored Marketing for RGV Buyers: Whether it’s a family looking for the perfect school district or a Winter Texan searching for a seasonal retreat, I know how to connect your property with the right audience.
Maximizing Exposure: During my journalism career, I learned how to get a message in front of the largest possible audience. I now use those skills to ensure your home gets noticed by buyers across multiple platforms, including social media, MLS, and direct outreach.
Quick Action: My background in fast-paced news reporting means I’m no stranger to deadlines. I work efficiently to get your home sold quickly while keeping you informed every step of the way.
Why Selling with Me Is the Smartest Choice
Selling your home is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll ever make. Partnering with a realtor who brings unique skills and a deep understanding of the Rio Grande Valley is invaluable. Here’s what you’ll get when you work with me:
Unmatched Marketing Expertise: I combine storytelling, multimedia production, and advanced digital strategies to make your home stand out.
Local Knowledge: From reporting in the field, I’ve developed an intimate understanding of the entire Valley, allowing me to highlight what makes your home and its location special.
Professionalism You Can Trust: With years of experience under pressure as a journalist, I know how to handle even the most complex situations with confidence and care.
What’s Next? Let’s Get Started!
If you’re considering selling your home, let’s chat. As someone who’s passionate about the Rio Grande Valley and committed to helping homeowners succeed, I’m here to guide you every step of the way.
Ready to make your move? Contact me today, and let’s start crafting a plan to sell your home for the best possible price.
For more tips, check out my guides on staging your home for sale and navigating the RGV real estate market.