Can I Sell My Home in Port Washington Without a Listing Agent?

Can you sell your Port Washington home without a listing agent?
Yes — it’s possible to sell your home on your own, often called “For Sale by Owner” (FSBO). But while this approach may save you on commission, it comes with challenges that can affect your bottom line and peace of mind.

What FSBO Involves

Selling without an agent means you’ll need to handle every step yourself:

  • Pricing the home correctly

  • Marketing the property online and offline

  • Scheduling and hosting showings

  • Negotiating offers

  • Handling contracts, disclosures, and legal paperwork

  • Coordinating inspections, appraisals, and closing logistics

In New York, you’ll still need an attorney to finalize the sale, but most of the legwork falls on you.

Potential Advantages of FSBO

  • Save on Commission: Sellers sometimes avoid paying a listing agent’s fee (typically 2.5%–3%).

  • Direct Control: You make all decisions about pricing, marketing, and negotiation.

  • Personal Involvement: Some sellers like being hands-on with buyers.

Common Challenges

  1. Pricing Accurately
    Without access to MLS data or a professional market analysis, many FSBO sellers overprice (leading to longer time on market) or underprice (leaving money on the table).

  2. Marketing Exposure
    FSBO homes are not automatically listed on the MLS, Compass.com, or Zillow through an agent’s account, meaning fewer buyers may see them.

  3. Negotiating Offers
    Buyers often expect discounts when dealing with FSBO sellers, knowing they aren’t paying an agent. Negotiations can become one-sided without professional representation.

  4. Legal & Compliance Risks
    New York real estate has strict disclosure laws and procedures. Missing a step could expose you to legal issues.

Why Most Sellers Choose an Agent

While FSBO is possible, most Port Washington sellers ultimately work with an agent because:

  • Homes sell for higher prices on average when marketed by a professional.

  • Agents handle buyer screening, negotiations, and marketing reach.

  • Selling is less stressful when guided by someone experienced in the local market.

Eric Berman, REALTOR, combines local expertise with proven marketing strategies to help Port Washington homeowners sell faster and for more money — while avoiding the headaches of going it alone.

Bottom Line: You can sell your Port Washington home without an agent, but it comes with trade-offs. For most sellers, the added value of professional marketing, negotiation, and support outweighs the potential savings.

Thinking about selling? Contact Eric Berman for a consultation and find out how professional representation can maximize your results.

Meta Description:
Can you sell your home in Port Washington without a listing agent? Learn the pros and cons of FSBO vs. working with a REALTOR, and why Eric Berman can help you net more.