Why Real Estate Agents Are More Valuable Than Ever: New Survey Insights

by Jeff Hernandez

In an era where online listings and DIY home sales are more accessible than ever, one thing remains clear—real estate agents are still the most trusted choice for buyers and sellers. A recent consumer survey highlights that the vast majority of homeowners prefer working with a professional, reinforcing the critical role that experienced real estate agents play in navigating complex transactions, securing better deals, and providing peace of mind.

If you're considering buying or selling a home in Scottsdale, Phoenix, or the surrounding Arizona market, here's why working with a real estate agent remains the smartest move.

Real Estate Agents Are Still the #1 Choice for Home Sellers

A recent survey by Clever Real Estate found that:

✔ 76% of home sellers believe a traditional real estate agent is the best way to sell a home.
✔ 77% of recent home sellers used a full-service agent, compared to only 10% who opted for For Sale By Owner (FSBO).
✔ Just 2% of sellers used iBuyers like Opendoor or Offerpad, indicating that alternative selling methods remain a small fraction of the market.

📌 What This Means for Sellers: The majority of homeowners trust real estate professionals to price, market, and negotiate their home sales successfully. While some may try selling on their own, most turn to experienced agents to ensure a smoother and more profitable transaction.

90% of Buyers & Sellers Use an Agent – A New Record

Another national Harris Insights study revealed that 90% of consumers used a real estate agent when buying or selling their home—an all-time high.

✔ This number has increased by 5% since 2014, showing continued demand for agent expertise.
✔ 91% of Millennials (ages 18 to 34) used an agent, proving that even younger generations still value professional guidance in real estate.

📌 What This Means for Buyers: While buyers have access to endless online resources, an experienced agent is still essential for finding the right home, negotiating deals, and navigating inspections and closing processes.

The Downside of Alternative Selling Methods

Many sellers consider alternative options like FSBO (For Sale By Owner) or working with a cash-buyer company—but the survey shows these methods often lead to disappointment.

✔ 38% of sellers said cash-buyer companies were the worst way to sell a home.
✔ 66% of FSBO sellers found it the hardest method, while 55% said it was the slowest way to sell.

📌 What This Means for Sellers: While avoiding agent commissions might seem tempting, the reality is that selling without an agent often leads to more stress, a longer time on market, and lower sale prices.

Real Estate Agents Go Beyond the Transaction

A Wakefield Research study revealed that 60% of buyers felt their agent provided services beyond expectations, from helping with inspections to offering personal support during the home-buying process.

✔ Some buyers even described their agents as a mix of expert, advocate, and even therapist during the transaction.
✔ Agents help buyers and sellers stay calm, navigate challenges, and negotiate the best possible deals.

📌 What This Means for Buyers & Sellers: Buying or selling a home is one of the biggest financial transactions of your life—having an experienced real estate professional by your side makes all the difference.

The Bottom Line: Real Estate Agents Are More Valuable Than Ever

Despite the rise of digital tools and alternative selling methods, real estate agents remain essential because they:

✅ Price homes correctly for the market
✅ Provide expert marketing and negotiation strategies
✅ Save buyers and sellers time, stress, and costly mistakes
✅ Have local expertise that online tools can’t match

If you’re thinking about buying or selling a home in Scottsdale, Phoenix, or the surrounding areas, working with an experienced Realtor® will ensure you get the best results in today’s competitive market.