Why Sellers Are at a Disadvantage When Dealing with Agents Directly

And how a vendor advocate helps even the playing field.

Selling a property is often one of the biggest financial moves you’ll ever make—and yet many sellers go into it without expert representation on their side. While it’s common to engage a real estate agent to sell your home, what’s less commonly understood is that the agent is not necessarily working in your best interest—especially if you’re dealing with them directly and without guidance.

Selling your home shouldn’t feel like stepping into unfamiliar territory. With the right guidance, you can make confident, informed decisions and achieve a great result.

Here’s the truth: sellers are often at a disadvantage when negotiating directly with agents. From pressure tactics to confusing pricing strategies, the selling process can leave vendors feeling overwhelmed, second-guessing their decisions, and potentially leaving money on the table.

1. Agents Are Expert Negotiators—You Might Not Be

Real estate agents negotiate property deals every day. They know the language, the tactics, and the timelines that work in their favour. As a seller, especially if it's your first time or you’re selling a long-held family home, it’s easy to be outmatched.

You may be pushed into agreeing to a lower asking price “to meet the market,” or rushed to accept an offer “before the buyer walks.” Without someone experienced in your corner, it’s hard to push back or ask the right questions.

2. Unclear or Misleading Pricing Strategies

One of the most common frustrations sellers face is inconsistent or unclear pricing advice from agents. Some agents will overquote your property to win your listing, then pressure you to drop the price once it's on the market. Others may underquote to spark buyer interest but fail to deliver strong offers.

This inconsistency can be costly. It may lead to a longer time on market, reduced buyer confidence, or the need for unnecessary advertising spend. Sellers often aren’t equipped with the right data or tools to challenge these strategies, making it difficult to know whether their home is being marketed effectively—or priced realistically.

3. High-Pressure Sales Tactics

Once you’ve signed an exclusive sales authority, the dynamic can shift quickly. Some agents may push for a quick sale to secure their commission, even if it’s not the best outcome for you. Sellers can feel pressured to accept early offers, often below what the property might achieve with a bit more time or a better strategy.

And let’s not forget the pressure around advertising costs. Sellers are often asked to invest thousands upfront for marketing—without a clear explanation of how those dollars are being spent or what return they should expect.

4. You're Not Their Only Client

Most agents are juggling multiple listings at once, which means your property may not always get the attention it deserves. Unless your home is high-end or in high demand, it can be easy for your sale to become “just another listing.” Without someone advocating specifically for your outcome, things can slip through the cracks—missed buyer follow-ups, slow campaign updates, or inconsistent feedback.

5. The Solution? Engage a Vendor Advocate

A vendor advocate works for you, not the agent. At Walsh Brown Property, we manage the sales process on your behalf—helping you choose the right agent, reviewing their pricing and marketing strategy, negotiating commission, and staying by your side throughout the entire campaign.

We know the games, the tactics, and the tricks—because we’ve been on the other side. Our job is to keep everything transparent, realistic, and focused on your best result.

And the best part? Vendor advocacy is typically a free service—we’re paid a share of the agent’s commission, only once your property sells. You get expert guidance and peace of mind without any added cost.

Selling your home shouldn’t feel like stepping into unfamiliar territory. With the right guidance, you can make confident, informed decisions and achieve a great result. Don’t leave it to chance—or pressure. If you’re thinking of selling, let’s chat about how we can protect your interests and make the process smooth and stress-free. Contact us today at aly@walshbrownproperty.com.au or 0411771181 for expert advice and assistance with your property journey.

*** 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.