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WHY LISTING YOUR FIXER-UPPER ON THE MLS -AND WORKING WITH A REALTOR WILL NET YOU MORE THAN THE QUICK CASH SALES.

  • Writer: Tori Pirolli
    Tori Pirolli
  • Aug 13
  • 2 min read
Fayetteville, NC home being sold "As-is"
Fayetteville, NC home being sold "As-is"

When a property looks rough, many assume the only viable path is a quick cash sale or working with a wholesaler. But here’s the truth: listing your fixer-upper on the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) with a savvy REALTOR is often the most profitable—and smartest—move.


Myth: “Because it’s not in great condition, it won’t sell on the MLS.”

Reality: The MLS arms your property with maximum exposure, including to investors and flippers actively seeking “as-is” opportunities. This broad visibility often leads to competitive offers—something a single cash-buyer or wholesaler can’t match.


Market Insights That Back It Up

1. FSBO (For-Sale-By-Owner) vs Agent-Handled Listings

Homes sold by owners without agents (FSBO) fetch 15–30% less than listings handled by REALTORS—regardless of condition.

Median FSBO sale price: ~$380,000 vs ~$435,000 for agent-assisted homes. That’s a potential $55,000 difference—and you still pay agent commissions with MLS, but typically net more overall. Clever Real EstateNational Association of REALTORS®

In broader terms, sellers working with agents net 25% more on average than FSBO sellers. Raleigh Realty


2. MLS Listings Add Value, Even for Fixer-Uppers

Homes not listed on the MLS sell for 1.5% less, or nearly $5,000 less for the average seller. Plus, listing during prime seasons (like April–June) can boost sale prices by roughly 1.6%. Better Homes & Gardens

4. Cash Buyers Often Low-Ball

Industry insight and real experiences warn that cash buyers—especially wholesalers or “We Buy Houses” operators—tend to low-ball sellers, offering as little as 50–70% of market value. Offers may feel convenient, but you could be sacrificing tens of thousands in equity. HomeLightReddit



A REALTOR Maximizes Net Proceeds—Even on Fixer-Uppers

Here’s why listing on the MLS through a REALTOR is your best bet:

  • Greater Buyer Reach: REALTORS tap broad networks, including investor groups, flippers, and traditional buyers.

  • Professional Pricing & Strategy: Agents help lock in pricing that reflects both current condition and after-repair value (ARV)—maximizing offers. HomeLightBetter Homes & Gardens

  • Marketing to Investors: Many buyers on MLS actively buy distressed properties—so your listing reaches the right audience.

  • Navigating the Transaction: Agents handle negotiations, disclosures, inspections, and paperwork—saving sellers hassle and risk.

  • Pre-Listing Inspection Advantage: Sellers who order a pre-listing inspection often attract better bids by removing uncertainty. HomeLight




Final Word

Even if a property needs work, listing it on the MLS with a REALTOR opens the door to far more buyers, higher offers, and greater net proceeds than selling off-market to a cash buyer or wholesaler.


For fixer-upper owners in the Fayetteville/Ft. Bragg area, partnering with a brokerage that understands both investor dynamics and MLS strategies ensures your property gets seen—and sells for what it's truly worth.


Tori Pirolli

Broker/Owner - Birch & Beam Realty

C36423/295512


 
 
 

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