Inheriting land sounds great—until you realize you have no plans to use it. Maybe it's costing you property taxes, or perhaps you just want to cash out and move on. Either way, you’re ready to sell. But should you handle the sale yourself or hire a real estate agent? Both options have their pros and cons, and the right choice depends on your priorities.
Let’s break it down so you can make the best decision.
Understanding Your Selling Options
When it comes to selling land, you have two main paths:
For Sale By Owner (FSBO)
This means you take full control of the process, from setting the price to marketing and closing the deal. No middlemen, no commissions—just you handling everything.
Realtor-Assisted Sale
You hire a licensed real estate agent to manage the sale. They handle pricing, marketing, negotiations, and paperwork, leveraging their experience and network to find buyers.
Now, let’s look at the advantages and drawbacks of each approach.
Advantages of Selling Land by Owner
1. You Keep More Money
The biggest perk? No commission fees. Realtors usually take around 5-6% of the sale price, so selling on your own means that cash stays in your pocket.
2. Full Control Over the Process
Want to price your land aggressively? List it on multiple platforms? Negotiate directly? When you sell FSBO, every decision is yours.
3. Direct Communication with Buyers
Talking directly to potential buyers can simplify negotiations and speed up the process. No middleman means fewer delays and clearer conversations.
Disadvantages of Selling Land by Owner
1. Limited Market Exposure
Without a realtor’s network or access to the MLS (Multiple Listing Service), getting your land in front of serious buyers can be tough. You’ll need to find other ways to market effectively.
2. Pricing Can Be Tricky
Price it too high, and you won’t get offers. Price it too low, and you leave money on the table. Realtors have market data and experience that help them price land strategically—something that’s hard to replicate on your own.
3. Legal & Paperwork Headaches
Selling land isn’t just about finding a buyer—it’s about contracts, disclosures, and making sure everything is legally sound. If you go the FSBO route, you’ll need to navigate this on your own (or hire a real estate attorney).
4. Time and Effort
From listing and marketing to negotiating and closing, selling land takes time. If you’re busy or unfamiliar with the process, handling it all yourself can be overwhelming.
No Agents, No Fees—Just a Simple Land Sale with UNITY
If you're considering selling by owner to avoid agent commissions and stay in control, UNITY makes it even easier.
We specialize in fast, hassle-free land sales—no listings, no waiting, no endless negotiations. Just a fair cash offer and a smooth, straightforward process so you can move on quickly and stress-free.
Advantages of Using a Realtor to Sell Land
1. Market Knowledge & Pricing Expertise
Realtors have access to market data that helps them price your land competitively. They know how to position it to attract serious buyers.
2. Wider Buyer Reach
Through MLS listings, professional networks, and marketing strategies, agents can expose your property to more potential buyers—often leading to faster sales.
3. They Handle Negotiations
A good realtor knows how to negotiate the best price while keeping the deal moving. They can also filter out unqualified buyers, saving you time.
4. Less Stress, Less Work
From paperwork to closing logistics, a realtor takes care of the details, so you don’t have to.
Disadvantages of Using a Realtor to Sell Land
1. You’ll Pay Commission
This is the biggest downside. Most agents charge 5-6% of the sale price, which can add up fast.
2. Less Control Over the Process
Your agent will make recommendations on pricing, marketing, and negotiations. If you prefer to handle things yourself, this might feel limiting.
3. Not All Realtors Are Land Experts
Most agents specialize in residential properties, not vacant land. If you go this route, be sure to find an agent with specific experience selling land.
What’s the Best Option for You?
If your priority is maximizing profit and maintaining control, FSBO might be the right fit—as long as you're prepared for the work involved.
If you value convenience, a wider buyer pool, and professional expertise, working with a realtor could be worth the commission fee.
Regardless of which route you choose, be sure to research, market effectively, and understand the legal aspects of selling land. The right strategy can make all the difference in turning your inherited land into cash—quickly and efficiently.
Why Sell to UNITY Instead of Going FSBO?
No Marketing, No Guesswork: We make you an offer upfront. No need to find a buyer.
No Paperwork Headaches: We handle everything, so you don’t get stuck in legal red tape.
Fast Cash, No Commissions – What we offer is what you get.
If selling by owner feels overwhelming, UNITY offers a stress-free alternative. Get a no-obligation offer today and see how easy selling land can be.
FAQ: Selling Land by Owner vs. With a Realtor
Is it better to sell land by owner or with a realtor?
It depends on your priorities. Selling by owner (FSBO) saves on commission fees and gives you full control, but it requires time and effort. A realtor can provide market expertise and a wider buyer network but comes with commission costs.
What are the biggest advantages of selling land by owner?
FSBO sellers keep more money by avoiding realtor commissions, control pricing and negotiations, and communicate directly with buyers, which can speed up the sale.
What challenges come with selling land without a realtor?
The biggest challenges include limited market exposure, accurately pricing the land, handling legal paperwork, and managing the sales process without professional assistance.
How can I market my land if I sell it myself?
Use online real estate platforms, social media, and local advertising. High-quality photos, clear property descriptions, and competitive pricing can help attract buyers.
Do realtors make it easier to sell land?
Yes, realtors bring experience in pricing, marketing, and negotiations. They also have access to MLS and buyer networks, which can lead to a faster sale.
6. How do I decide whether to sell FSBO or hire a realtor?
Consider your experience, time availability, and comfort with negotiations. If you want to maximize profit and have time to manage the process, FSBO may work. If you prefer convenience and expert guidance, a realtor may be the better choice.
