Problems Sellers Face Working With Real Estate Agents

There are several challenges that homeowners can encounter when working with real estate agents in Portland.

In this post, we’ll walk you through some of the most common frustrations sellers face when choosing to list their property with a traditional agent—and what alternatives might work better for your situation.

Before we dive in, it’s important to mention that not all agents are the same. There are definitely some professional, dedicated agents who can help sellers achieve great results. However, listing with an agent isn’t always the best solution for everyone. Your property, your financial needs, and your timeline all factor into what method is right for you. Here are a few pitfalls you may want to watch out for before signing a listing agreement.

Pre-Listing Expenses Add Up Quickly

Preparing a house for the market often comes with a long list of costs before your agent even starts showing it. You may need to take care of repairs, repainting, deep cleaning, yard maintenance, or even staging the home to attract buyers. Some homeowners also rent storage units to declutter their living spaces and make their homes appear more spacious. All of this can add thousands of dollars to your selling costs—before a single offer comes in.

You Might Be Paying for More Than You Expect

Many sellers assume that an agent’s commission includes all services needed to sell the home, but that’s not always the case. Some agents charge extra for professional photography, advertising, open houses, or online marketing. Others may offer limited service, such as listing the home on the MLS but leaving you responsible for showings, negotiations, and answering buyer questions. Be sure to ask upfront exactly what your agent includes in their package—and what costs might be passed on to you.

Overpricing Can Backfire

It’s not uncommon for agents to suggest a higher listing price to win your business. While it might sound appealing, pricing your home too high can discourage potential buyers from even taking a look. If your home sits on the market for too long without offers, you’ll likely need to drop the price—and stale listings often raise red flags for buyers. Starting with a realistic price based on current market data is usually the smarter approach.

Poor Communication Slows Everything Down

Selling a home is a big deal, and sellers deserve clear, consistent communication throughout the process. Unfortunately, some agents are hard to reach once the contract is signed. If your calls go unanswered or you’re left in the dark about next steps, it can create added stress and uncertainty. A responsive, engaged agent should keep you updated and involved every step of the way—not leave you chasing them for answers.

Locked Into a Contract With No Flexibility

Many traditional listing agreements bind you to your agent for several months, regardless of how satisfied you are with their performance. Some contracts even guarantee them a commission no matter how the buyer is found—even if you find the buyer yourself. If the agent underperforms, you could still be stuck paying their fee, which can be especially frustrating if you’ve done most of the work yourself.

Why More Sellers Are Choosing Direct Sales

For many homeowners in Portland, Oregon, a direct sale is a simpler, faster, and more cost-effective way to sell. With Better Off Home Buyers, you won’t need to worry about repairs, fees, commissions, or waiting for financing. We’ll buy your home as-is, on your schedule, and for a fair cash price. If you’re ready to skip the headaches of a traditional listing, give us a call at (888) 827-0889 to learn more about how we can help.