by Ryan Elliott | Real Estate Agent with Royal LePage – St. John’s, NL
If you’re thinking about selling your home in St. John’s, you’ve probably wondered — do I really need a realtor?
At first glance, selling on your own might seem like a great way to save on commission. But before you take that leap, it’s worth looking at what actually happens when homeowners go the “For Sale by Owner” route — and why most eventually turn to a professional.
I’m Ryan Elliott, a real estate agent here in St. John’s, NL, and I’ve guided dozens of local sellers through this decision. Here’s the truth: you can sell your home yourself, but you’ll almost always net less money, more stress, and more risk in the process.
Let’s break down why.
1. Pricing Your Home Is Harder Than You Think
Pricing is the foundation of a successful sale. But here’s the problem — most homeowners don’t have access to the data that really matters.
When you price your home yourself, you’re relying on public listings that show asking prices, not what homes actually sold for. The difference can be huge.
In St. John’s, market value can shift quickly based on season, condition, neighbourhood, and even the direction your home faces. I analyze recent MLS data, price-per-square-foot trends, and buyer activity before setting a price. The goal is simple: position your home where it attracts strong interest right from day one.
Homes that are priced strategically sell faster — and for more — than homes that “test the market” too high.
2. Marketing Is Everything (and It’s More Than a Facebook Post)
It’s easy to underestimate how competitive the St. John’s housing market really is. Buyers expect professional marketing — not a cell phone photo and a lawn sign.
When I represent a home, I invest in high-end photography, video tours, floor plans, and targeted social media campaigns that reach buyers across Newfoundland and beyond.
Instead of hoping someone stumbles across your listing, we make sure the right people see it first — whether they’re local move-up buyers, out-of-province relocations, or investors watching the St. John’s market closely.
And because presentation drives emotion, every image, caption, and video is crafted to tell the story of your home — not just list its features.
3. Negotiation Is Where Sellers Lose the Most
Here’s the part nobody warns you about: when buyers see a For Sale by Owner, they often assume there’s “room to negotiate.”
They know you’re saving on commission, and they’ll try to claim that difference for themselves. That means lower offers, longer conditions, and more back-and-forth.
As your agent, I protect your leverage. I know how to negotiate price, terms, and timelines so you walk away with a deal that works for you. My job is to keep the process calm, professional, and profitable — even when offers get competitive.
4. Paperwork and Legal Details Matter
Real estate contracts aren’t simple documents — they’re legally binding agreements filled with timelines, disclosures, and obligations.
Missing one clause or misunderstanding a deadline can create real headaches later. Working with a realtor ensures every form is handled correctly and every step is tracked. You stay protected, compliant, and informed from start to finish.
When I represent a seller, I handle every detail from the first showing to the final signature. My clients never have to worry about what they missed — because nothing gets missed.
5. You Don’t Just Get a Realtor — You Get a Partner
Selling your home is a big decision, and it’s emotional. You’ve built memories, invested time, and now you’re ready for your next chapter.
That’s where having the right person in your corner makes all the difference. One of my recent clients said it best:
“Ryan guided me through selling my first home. He broke down the process step-by-step and was always available when I had questions or uncertainties. He went above and beyond with helping finalize details for closing. I would highly recommend Ryan Elliott for all your real estate needs!”
That’s what I strive for every time — to make sure you feel supported, informed, and confident in every decision.
The Bottom Line
Yes, you can sell your home without a realtor. But if your goal is to sell quickly, safely, and for the best possible price, partnering with a professional makes all the difference.
From pricing precision to marketing power and skilled negotiation, having an experienced local agent turns a complicated process into a confident one.
If you’re thinking about selling your home in St. John’s, let’s talk about your options.
I’m Ryan Elliott, your trusted local real estate expert in St. John’s, NL.
Schedule a call using the Contact Page, and let’s make your first day on the market your best day.