A qualified, competent real estate agent will help you navigate the myriad of decisions that arise when buying and selling a home. An agent provides value to the homeowner in many ways:

• Pays for all marketing and advertising costs.
• Adds experience and expertise in all aspects of the sales process.
• The sales process includes marketing, financing, negotiations and more.
• Handles all showings.
• Brings a network of known, trusted real estate professionals.
• If your agent doesn't have the answer, he or she likely knows someone who does.
• Always has your interests in mind so you always have someone on your side.
• Can handle and advise on all price and contract negotiations.
• Provides you with all the possible options and opportunities without holding back.
• Gives an unbiased, realistic view of your home and your options.
• Unlike buyers and sellers, an agent has no emotional attachment to property.
• Has the knowledge to help you ask the right questions.
• Being a third party, potential buyers are more likely to tell your agent the truth about your home, even if it is unflattering.
• The above objective viewpoint will help you make the necessary changes to get your home sold.
• Your time is valuable. A real estate agent allows you to spend your time how you want.

There are sellers out there perfectly capable of selling their own home, but as a buyer if you have never gone through this process why would you risk not having someone look out for your best interest.  Conversely there are saavy buyers that have purchased a home one or more times, but as a seller  think of how many chances you miss by not being available when a buyer drives by.....by appointment only!  Are you really serious about selling your house.