When surveyed, 90% of buyers said they used a real estate representative to help them find their home. 

Less than 9% of buyers bought directly from the previous owner. 

Sellers who were represented by a realtor sold their home for 16% more $ than sellers who were not represented. 

87% of people who are trying to sell their own home eventually list with an agent. 

More than 65% of sellers who tried to sell their home themselves said they would never try again. 

You cannot market your home as effectively as a licensed real estate professional can. 

You cannot reach as many prospective buyers on your own or with an on-line service as you can by dealing with a real estate professional with access to both their clients and those of more than 2000 Ottawa agents. 

Neither you nor your on-line service can get as many visits as an agent’s website or the Ottawa Real Estate Board MLS® (Multiple Listing Service) does. 

You cannot readily determine whether prospective buyers are financially able to buy your home, so you may be wasting your time with unqualified buyers. 

You probably cannot take sufficient time from your daily responsibilities to show your home to prospective buyers at the time they are available to see it. 

There are many legal issues and possible pitfalls involved in selling your own home. 

There are important laws about misrepresentation, disclosure and privacy that can get you into trouble. 

There are risks inherent in exposing yourself, your home and your family to the general public.