Over the past year, areas like Sumner, Bonney Lake, and Lake Tapps have seen increased listing activity. This means your home will be up against more competition—and buyers now have the luxury to compare homes based on price, condition, location, and even listing photos.
In fact, data from Realtor.com shows that inventory this past July hit its highest point since 2019. That shift moves us out of the ultra-hot seller's market and into a more balanced environment, where buyers can afford to be selective.
If you’re trying to sell in SeaTac, Des Moines, or Burien, for example, just putting a “For Sale By Owner” (FSBO) sign in the yard isn’t enough. Today’s buyers expect professional-level presentation and marketing—and they won’t hesitate to skip your listing if it doesn’t measure up.
Why FSBO Doesn’t Work Anymore
A few years ago, homes practically sold themselves. But now, without the right pricing strategy, staging, marketing, and negotiation skills, you risk sitting on the market—or worse, accepting a lower offer than you could have gotten.
According to Zillow, 21% of homeowners who tried selling on their own ended up hiring a real estate agent anyway after running into challenges. That’s nearly one in four sellers who realized it wasn’t as easy as it seemed.
What a Local Agent Brings to the Table
Whether you’re listing in Normandy Park or the heart of Tacoma, working with a local pro gives you an edge:
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Accurate pricing based on current market conditions
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Staging advice to make your home shine
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Targeted marketing strategies that reach qualified buyers
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Offer negotiations to protect your profit
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Hyper-local knowledge of how your neighborhood compares
Bottom line? Selling your home isn’t a DIY project. It’s a high-stakes transaction—and a professional agent can help you get the most out of it.
If you're in the South Sound area and thinking about selling, let’s talk. Visit yourrealestatestory.com to learn more about how I can help you succeed in today’s market.
