If you’re thinking about selling your home, the lure of saving the money you’d have to spend on a commission to a Realtor is tempting. Don’t be tempted. There are very good reasons to list your home with a Realtor and here are a few good ones.

Let’s start with someone to look out for your interests. A Realtor is bound by a code of ethics to do the right thing. That means putting you, their client, first. They have the knowledge of things like issues you have to disclose to prospective buyers. They can tell you what you need to do to get the best price, and market your property at its best price. They will also be the ones to negotiate with others.

A Realtor is your advocate through the entire process; from listing, to showing, to negotiating, writing the contract and settling on the property. They will know reputable people to handle all the details like inspections and settlement.

If you list your home with a Realtor, they will get you the best price. Statistics show that people who sell with a Realtor get about 16% higher selling prices. That means you are an average of 10% ahead of the game even after the commission is paid. They are well-versed in the market. They know inventory levels, how long it’s taking to sell and what differences are between listing and selling prices. All of this is important when making a decision on accepting an offer or even what to list your home for.

In this day and age you also need to consider who is coming through your home. You are guaranteed that each person that enters your home is accompanied by a licensed Realtor. This means you don’t need to be there. It also means that someone who might be thinking about committing a crime will be deterred by the pre-showing questions about qualifying as a buyer, or at being accompanied in your home. Don’t be tempted, be smart. List your home with a Realtor.