Should You Even Hire A Realtor?

For most Americans, their home isn’t just where they live, it’s their largest financial asset. In fact, according to the Federal Reserve’s 2023 Survey of Consumer Finances, the median net worth of homeowners is nearly 40 times greater than that of renters, largely due to home equity. While retirement accounts and stocks are important, the value in your home often surpasses all other investments combined.

That’s why being smart about how you buy or sell a home is critical to your long-term financial well-being.

The Stakes Are High. Whether You’re Buying or Selling

We all want the best deal, right?

• If you’re a seller, your goal is to get top dollar, because chances are, you’re turning around and using those proceeds for your next home. Every dollar counts when you’re upgrading, downsizing, or relocating.
• If you’re a buyer, you want to make sure you’re not overpaying, especially in today’s competitive market. No one wants to feel like they’ve made a poor investment.

And in 2025, the stakes are higher than ever. Home prices remain elevated due to limited inventory, with the National Association of Realtors reporting just a four-month supply of homes on the market well below the six-month benchmark for a balanced market. This supply crunch has kept prices high, making every negotiation and decision even more important.

Why Working With a Local Real Estate Agent Is a Smart Financial Move

👉 Step one: Hire an experienced local real estate agent.

Here’s why working with a local professsional isn’t just helpful, it can actually make you money.

Think of it like hiring a tax professional. Sure, you could file your own taxes, but an expert knows the deductions, the laws, and how to avoid costly mistakes. They save you money and stress.

It’s the same with real estate.

A great agent understands the local market, knows how to price a home competitively, and can negotiate fiercely on your behalf. We also handle the complex paperwork, timelines, inspections, and legal requirements, protecting your time, finances, and peace of mind.

The Homeownership Landscape in 2025

The current market is shaped by a few key trends:

• Boomers are holding onto their homes longer. A 2024 survey by Clever Real Estate found that 54% of baby boomers, who own 38% of U.S. homes, say they never plan to sell. This limits inventory and keeps prices high, especially for younger buyers.
• First-time buyers face more challenges than ever. High mortgage rates, limited supply, and rising home prices have created a tough environment for new buyers. In contrast, many boomers bought their first homes for under $100,000 and didn’t need dual incomes to qualify.
• Equity is growing. Despite market fluctuations, homeowners continue to build equity. According to CoreLogic, the average U.S. homeowner gained over $20,000 in equity in 2023 alone. That’s a powerful wealth-building tool if managed wisely.

Your Home Is More Than a Place to Live-It’s a Financial Strategy

Whether you’re buying your first home, upgrading, or preparing to sell, your real estate decisions have long-term financial implications. That’s why it’s so important to work with someone who understands the local market and can guide you through every step with confidence.

Whether you’re buying or selling, I’d be honored to help you navigate the process.

Reach out today as I would love to help you make the most of your most important investments.

Stacy Adell is a Montana real estate broker (licensed as Stacy Bennin) who assists buyers and sellers throughout Paradise Valley, Livingston, Bozeman and Southwestern Montana in general. In addition to her work in conventional real estate sales, she explores how blockchain, self-sovereign digital identity, and new technologies are shaping the future of property ownership and personal privacy. Stacy writes with the goal of making these subjects simple and informative. She can be contacted at stacybennin@gmail.com

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it worth hiring a realtor to buy a house?

Federal Reserve data shows the median net worth of homeowners is nearly 40 times greater than renters, largely because of home equity. Given those stakes, professional guidance on pricing, negotiation, and contracts protects your largest financial asset. The complexity of the current market, with tight inventory and elevated prices, makes expert help a practical decision.

Can I buy a house without a real estate agent?

You can, but the current market works against unrepresented buyers. Inventory sits at roughly four months of supply, well below the six-month benchmark for a balanced market. That scarcity drives competition. An experienced agent brings market knowledge, negotiation skills, and contract expertise that directly affect what you pay and the terms you get.

Why is housing inventory so low right now?

Baby boomers hold 38% of U.S. homes, and 54% of them say they never plan to sell. That locks up a massive share of available housing. Combined with underbuilding and population growth, the result is persistent low inventory. Only about four months of supply exists nationally, compared to the six months considered balanced.

How much equity do homeowners gain per year?

Homeowners gained over $20,000 in equity in 2023 alone, according to industry data. Equity builds through both mortgage paydown and property appreciation. This is the primary wealth-building mechanism that separates homeowners from renters and underscores why getting the transaction right, whether buying or selling, has outsized financial consequences.

Stacy Bennin is a licensed real estate broker in Montana, affiliated with Legacy Lands Real Estate in Paradise Valley. She specializes in helping buyers and sellers across Park County and southwest Montana find the property that fits their needs. She stays current on AI, blockchain, and emerging technology so her clients benefit from where real estate marketing, ads, and transactions are headed, not just where they have been. Contact her at (406) 224-3267 or visit stacyadell.com.