I read an interesting blog today on how NAR is misleading the public by using statistics that are based on median rather than mean (average).  As I read some of the replies, I got the feeling that many people believed the auther.  The claim pretty much stated that NAR misleads the public to believe using a realtor is beneficial to receiving a higher selling price.   I have not yet researched to find the statistics that NAR uses or posts, if anyone has a link, I'd be appreciative for the time you'll save me.  I have an opinion on the importance of using a real estate agent versus selling "For sale by owner".  I do believe there is an advantage to sellers to use an agent.  I work mostly with buyers and I listen to them.  I've never said no if they asked to see a FSBO.  None of my clients have bought a FSBO.  They just don't feel comfortable.  They like knowing that professionals who are governed by the state have a legal responsibility.  One thing FSBO overlook when they consider selling their home on their own is the trust that an agent and their client share.  Here's an analogy for thought.  When we go to the doctor, his doctorate comforts us and eases our concerns.  Then there's the unlicensed phony doctor who secretly performs procedures at a substantially reduced cost.  This "doctor" doesn't bring peace but a sense of doubt to the patient.  Buyers are like patients and sellers are like the shady doctor and licensed real estate agents are like the professionally trained and licensed doctor.  FSBO under estimate the peace real estate agents bring to the transaction.  Buyers hire agents for a reason.  I've heard many times from my clients how thankful they were that they had me respresenting their interests.  I feel bad when I hear of agents who only work for a buck and see clients as a means.  There are plenty of agents who are professional and care about their image and the image of the industry.  Back to my point, real estate agents sell homes for a higher price than FSBO can receive because as the "value" of a home is considered, the real estate agent can prove value and the FSBO must convince value.  Buyers are skeptical of FSBO so low offers compensate for that!  That there is a huge advantage a seller will gain when employing a licensed, well trained, professional real estate agent.