Should I Sell My Maine Home Myself or Hire a Real Estate Agent?

Understand what selling by owner means

For sale by owner, often shortened to FSBO, means the owner handles the sale without hiring a listing agent for that role. It does not mean that no other professionals are involved. A buyer may have representation, and you may still need legal, closing, inspection, or other services.

Maine’s brokerage law includes an exception for transactions conducted by property owners. That exception does not remove other obligations attached to a sale. Get advice on the actual documents and requirements rather than relying on a generic online form.

Assign the work before comparing the fees

Make a responsibility list: comparable-sale research, price setting, photography, listing distribution, inquiry handling, showings, buyer follow-up, offer review, document coordination, and deadline tracking. Write a name beside each task for both approaches.

If selling yourself, estimate the hours and third-party services you will need. If interviewing agents, request a specific service proposal and ask what is included, what costs extra, and how updates will be provided. An assumed package is not a substitute for reading the agreement.

Keep representation and advice clear

A buyer’s agent generally represents the buyer under their agreement; do not assume that person will also protect your interests as seller. Ask who represents whom and direct legal advice about your obligations to your attorney.

NAR’s agency and non-agency guide explains why the professional’s role matters and why available relationships depend on state law. Have any proposed representation arrangement explained before sharing information you expect to be confidential.

Compare complete financial scenarios

For each approach, list a supportable sale range, marketing and service charges, negotiated brokerage obligations, expected carrying costs, and likely moving logistics. Include buyer requests under the actual proposed agreement. Selling without a listing agent does not automatically eliminate every brokerage-related payment.

The Maine Real Estate Commission’s consumer FAQ says brokerage compensation is negotiable. Ask each firm to explain the amount or method, when it is earned, and when it is payable. Avoid assuming a legally mandated percentage or guaranteed price advantage for either approach.

Account for disclosures and transaction coordination

For covered residential transactions, Maine requires specified property disclosures, including known defects. The Maine Attorney General’s guidance explains those obligations. Hiring an agent can help organize the process; it does not make accurate information unimportant.

Before launch, decide how offers will be received and reviewed, who will hold any deposit under the agreement, and who will track inspection, financing, and closing milestones. Ask the appropriate professional to explain uncertain terms rather than improvising once a deadline is approaching.

Choose the arrangement you can actually execute

Selling by owner may fit someone prepared to manage the work and obtain separate expertise. An agent-assisted approach may fit someone who wants coordinated marketing, negotiation, and transaction support. Evaluate actual capability, available time, and the proposed terms.

Get my free Maine Home Seller’s Guide through the Home Seller’s Guide form. Use its selling steps and offer worksheet as a starting point for assigning responsibilities.

I’m Tony Duong with Landing Real Estate. Contact me to discuss my services and compare your options. Sources reviewed October 25, 2026. Review agreements and obtain legal guidance appropriate to your transaction.