As we move into 2025, we’re seeing a significant shift in how savvy homeowners are approaching the home selling process. With mortgage rates currently at 7.25% and buyers becoming more selective, protecting your equity has never been more important.
Here’s the good news: you no longer have to choose between paying high commissions or tackling a For Sale By Owner (FSBO) sale completely on your own.
Why Traditional FSBO Might Not Be Your Best Option in 2025
Let’s be candid about what we’re seeing in the market. Zillow forecasts a modest 2.6% home value growth in 2025 – the slowest growth rate in years. In this environment of minimal appreciation, protecting your existing equity becomes absolutely critical. With home values barely outpacing inflation, traditional FSBO might seem tempting as a way to protect your equity. But in this slower market, consider these critical realities:
- Buyers are taking more time to make decisions
- Proper pricing is becoming increasingly critical
- Access to the MLS and major real estate platforms is essential for maximum exposure
- Negotiating power is shifting, requiring more strategic pricing and marketing
A Smarter Approach for 2025
Looking for a way to keep more of your equity without taking on all the complexities of FSBO? HomeRise has developed a solution that gives you the best of both worlds. For just $95, you get:
- Full MLS listing access (where 87% of buyers find their homes)
- Presence on major platforms like Zillow, Redfin, and Realtor.com
- Professional guidance on pricing and marketing
- All the tools you need to sell effectively
Plus, you’ll only pay a small settlement fee at closing, saving tens of thousands compared to traditional commission structures.
Making the Most of the 2025 Market
The market is showing clear signs of change. With existing home sales projected to rise by 15% year-over-year, there’s opportunity in this market – if you approach it right. Here’s what we’re advising our clients:
- Timing Matters: Watch for mortgage rates to potentially ease from current levels (7.25%) to between 6.2% and 6.4% by year-end
- Price Strategically: With more inventory coming to market, especially in regions like the Sun Belt, precise pricing is crucial
- Maximize Exposure: Getting your home on the MLS and major platforms isn’t just helpful – it’s essential
- Keep Your Options Open: Having professional support without high commissions gives you the flexibility to adapt to market changes
The Numbers Make Sense
Let’s look at a practical example. On a $400,000 home:
- Traditional 6% commission: $24,000
- FSBO challenges: Limited exposure, potential pricing mistakes, legal risks
- HomeRise solution: $95 listing fee + small settlement fee = keep more of your equity while getting professional-level exposure
Your Next Steps
The 2025 market is showing promising signs of increased activity, but it’s also becoming more sophisticated. Buyers have more choices and are taking their time to make decisions. This means you need the right tools and exposure to succeed – without unnecessarily sacrificing your equity.
If you’re considering selling your home this year and want to explore a smarter alternative to traditional FSBO, look into what HomeRise has to offer. You’ll discover how to get the market exposure you need while keeping more of your hard-earned equity.
Looking Ahead
As we progress through 2025, we expect to see more homeowners embracing this modern approach to home selling. The market is evolving, and so should your selling strategy. Remember, you don’t have to choose between paying high commissions or going it completely alone – there’s a better way.
Sources: Zillow Research, Yahoo Finance, Housing Wire, National Association of Realtors