Selling Property: Private Sale or Use an Agent?

June 17, 2025

Selling your home is one of the most significant financial decisions you’ll ever make. Whether you’re upgrading, downsizing, or moving for a new opportunity, it’s important to choose the right approach to suit your needs. One of the first decisions sellers face is whether to go the private sale route or enlist the services of a real estate agent.

Each option has its benefits and potential drawbacks — and understanding these can help you make an informed, confident decision.

Selling Privately

A private sale means taking full control of the sales process yourself — from marketing the property and arranging viewings to negotiating offers and finalising legal documents. An understanding of property law makes all the difference.

Pros of Selling Privately:

No Agent Commission: You can potentially save 5% to 7% of the selling price by avoiding commission fees.
Full Control: You set your own schedule for viewings and communicate directly with buyers.
Flexibility: Negotiations and decisions happen on your terms.

Cons of Selling Privately:

Higher Risk: Without the right legal backing, contracts may include loopholes or unclear terms, which can lead to serious complications.
Time and Effort: You’ll need to dedicate time for marketing, responding to enquiries, hosting viewings, and managing paperwork.
Lack of Experience: If this is your first time selling a property, you may be unprepared for common buyer objections, pricing errors, or negotiation tactics.

If you choose to sell privately, working with a knowledgeable property attorney is highly recommended. At RC Smith and Associates, we ensure your contracts are legally sound and your interests are protected throughout the transaction.

Selling Property: Private Sale or Use an Agent?

Using a Real Estate Agent

For most sellers, using an agent is a safer, more convenient option — especially when time, experience, or market access is limited.

Pros of Using an Agent:

Market Expertise: Agents help you price your property competitively based on current trends and valuations.
Professional Marketing: Your listing is advertised on trusted platforms with professional photos and descriptions.
Buyer Networks: Agents often have a pool of qualified buyers, which can speed up the sale.
Negotiation Skills: A seasoned agent can secure a better deal and handle tough negotiations on your behalf.
Guided Process: Agents help navigate the sale from start to finish, often with support from legal professionals.

Cons of Using an Agent:

Commission Fees: You’ll need to account for agent commission (usually 5–7% of the final sale price).
Less Control: While you’ll receive regular updates, the agent handles most of the buyer communication and process decisions.

Legal Guidance You Can Trust

Whether you choose to sell privately or through an agent, having the right legal partner is essential. RC Smith and Associates works with both private sellers and estate agents to ensure every aspect of your property transfer is handled with professionalism and care.

We assist with:

Drafting and reviewing offers to purchase
Managing property transfers
Opening sectional title registers
Registering or cancelling mortgage and notarial bonds

You are always free to appoint your own attorney — and choosing one early in the process can help prevent issues before they arise.

So, What’s the Best Option for You?

If you have the time, confidence, and legal support, a private sale may suit you. But if you’re looking for convenience, reduced risk, and expert negotiation, using a real estate agent may be the better choice. No matter which path you take, RCS Law is here to support you. We offer a range of legal services in addition to Property Law, such as wills and estates, commercial and trust law, and evictions.