DIY vs. Hiring a Vendor’s Advocate: Pros and Cons

Selling a property is a significant financial transaction, and how you handle the process can impact your final sale price. While some sellers prefer to manage everything themselves (DIY), others seek professional help from a vendor’s advocate. But is hiring a vendor’s advocate worth it, or can you navigate the process on your own? Let’s explore the pros and cons of each approach.

Selling a property is a significant financial transaction, and how you handle the process can impact your final sale price.

What is a Vendor’s Advocate?

A vendor’s advocate is a property professional who helps sellers through the sales process by selecting and managing a real estate agent, advising on marketing strategies, and ensuring negotiations are in the seller’s best interest. They typically charge a fee, which is often a portion of the agent’s commission rather than an additional cost.

DIY: Selling Without a Vendor’s Advocate

Pros of DIY Selling

✅ Full Control Over the Sale

When you manage the sale yourself, you have complete control over the choice of agent, marketing strategy, and negotiations. You make all the decisions without a third party involved.

✅ Save on Advocate Fees

While vendor’s advocates often take a cut from the real estate agent’s commission, some may charge additional fees. By handling the process yourself, you may save money if you’re confident in your ability to negotiate with agents.

✅ Direct Communication with Your Agent

Working directly with a real estate agent means you’re in control of all discussions, which can be beneficial if you have experience in property transactions or a clear strategy for your sale.

Cons of DIY Selling

🚫 Choosing the Wrong Agent

Without market knowledge, it’s easy to choose an underperforming agent or one who overpromises and underdelivers. The wrong agent could mean a lower sale price or a longer time on the market.

🚫 Time-Consuming

Selling a property involves managing marketing, attending open homes, negotiating offers, and dealing with legal paperwork. If you’re busy or inexperienced, this can be overwhelming.

🚫 Risk of Underselling

Many sellers don’t realise the full value of their property or how to push negotiations to secure the highest price. Without an advocate, you may accept a lower offer than necessary.

Hiring a Vendor’s Advocate

Pros of Hiring a Vendor’s Advocate

✅ Expert Guidance & Negotiation

A vendor’s advocate knows the market, understands pricing strategies, and can negotiate better terms with agents. They ensure you’re getting the best deal possible.

✅ Saves Time & Stress

Selling a home can be stressful, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the process. A vendor’s advocate handles the details for you, making the process smoother.

✅ Agent Selection Done for You

An advocate helps choose the right agent based on performance, not flashy marketing. They vet agents, ensuring you’re working with someone who can maximise your sale price.

✅ No Extra Cost in Many Cases

Most vendor’s advocates are paid from the agent’s commission, meaning there’s no additional cost to the seller. Instead of taking extra fees, they share the agent’s standard commission.

Cons of Hiring a Vendor’s Advocate

🚫 Less Control

If you like to be hands-on, you may feel a lack of control when working with an advocate. They manage key decisions, which some sellers may not be comfortable with.

🚫 Dependent on Their Skills

Not all vendor’s advocates are equal. Some may not be as skilled in negotiation or agent selection as others, so it’s important to research before choosing one.

Which Option is Right for You?

If you’re confident in handling negotiations, marketing, and agent selection, DIY selling could work for you. However, if you want expert guidance to secure the best price with minimal stress, hiring a vendor’s advocate might be the smarter choice.

Need help navigating the sale of your property? Get in touch! I’d love to help you make the right choice for your situation.

If you're preparing to sell and want to ensure you choose the best agent for your property, get in touch with us today. Let’s make sure you have the right team in place for a successful sale! Visit our website or contact us at aly@walshbrownproperty.com.au or 0411771181.

*** Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is intended for general informational purposes only. While we have made every effort to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the content, it should not be considered as personalised or professional advice. The homebuying process can vary based on individual circumstances, property types, and location-specific regulations.