Should You Sell Your Home by Yourself or Hire a Real Estate Professional?
Selling a home is one of the biggest financial decisions anyone can make. Whether you’re upgrading to a bigger house, downsizing for retirement, or relocating for work, the question always comes up: Should I sell my property on my own, or should I hire a licensed real estate professional?
Both options have their pros and cons, and the right choice depends on your priorities, resources, and comfort level in handling one of the most complex transactions of your life.
Selling Your Home by Yourself (For Sale By Owner)
In the Philippines, many homeowners consider going the “For Sale By Owner” (FSBO) route because it seems simpler and more cost-effective. After all, you avoid paying broker’s commission, which typically ranges from 3% to 5% of the selling price. For a ₱10 million home, that’s a big saving.
Legally speaking, the Real Estate Service Act of the Philippines (RESA Law or Republic Act No. 9646, Section 28 – Prohibition Against the Unauthorized Practice of Real Estate Service.) allows property owners to sell their own properties without needing a license. However, the law also makes it clear that only licensed real estate service practitioners — brokers, appraisers, and consultants — can engage in the business of selling, marketing, or appraising real estate for others. In short, you can sell your own home, but you cannot sell on behalf of someone else unless you’re licensed.
But while you might save on commission, you also take on all the responsibilities that come with selling. This includes:
- Pricing your property – Without access to comparative market analysis tools, it’s easy to either overprice (which scares off buyers) or underprice (which leaves money on the table).
- Marketing and exposure – You’ll need to invest in professional photos, online listings, social media ads, and even traditional flyers or tarpaulins.
- Screening buyers – Expect calls and inquiries at all hours. Some will be serious, others will just be “window shoppers.”
- Negotiating the deal – Handling price negotiations, counteroffers, and requests for repairs can be stressful.
- Handling legal paperwork – From the deed of sale to transfer taxes and clearances, the documentation is not only tedious but also risky if done incorrectly.
For homeowners who have time, patience, and a strong background in real estate, FSBO can work. But for most, it quickly becomes overwhelming.
Hiring a Real Estate Professional
On the other hand, a licensed real estate broker or salesperson brings expertise and convenience to the table. Their job isn’t just to find buyers but to make the whole process seamless. Here’s why many homeowners still prefer hiring one:
- Accurate pricing – Professionals use market data, experience, and insights to set the right price. Real estate brokers also work closely with licensed real estate appraisers who can correctly compute for the property’s fair market value, ensuring you neither overprice nor undersell your home.
- Wider reach – Brokers have access to listing platforms, networks, and other brokers, which increases your chances of finding qualified buyers faster.
- Negotiation skills – A seasoned broker knows how to handle offers, counteroffers, and even emotional situations to get you the best deal.
- Paperwork handled – They guide you through contracts, taxes, and title transfers, reducing the risk of costly mistakes.
- Saves time and stress – Instead of answering endless calls and chasing documents, you can focus on your move and daily life.
Yes, there’s a commission fee involved, but many homeowners find it worthwhile because it can result in a faster sale and potentially a higher selling price.
Which Option Is Best for You?
If you’re confident, have the time, and are comfortable with legal and financial details, selling your home by yourself might be a good option. However, if you want to maximize your property’s value and minimize stress, hiring a professional is the smarter choice.
Conclusion
At the end of the day, ang pagbenta ng bahay ay hindi basta-basta — it’s not like selling a used appliance or a secondhand car. Your home represents years of hard work and investment. Kung kaya mo lahat i-handle, go ahead and try the FSBO route. Pero kung gusto mong hassle-free, mabilis, at siguradong nasa tamang presyo ang property mo, better to work with a licensed real estate professional.
Sabi nga nila, “You don’t just sell a house, you sell peace of mind.” At sa Philippine real estate market, mas panatag ang loob kung may expert na kasama sa journey mo.
Read our latest blog about – Step by Step Guide to Selling Your Home in the Philippines
