Your comments about FSBO ads getting more calls are right on. FSBOs get more calls on their ads because buyers feel more comfortable calling them. They feel they might be better able to make a ‘deal’ with a FSBO. They also are less likely to be qualified buyers. Most people who list with Realtors do so because they do not want to deal with FSBO buyers. I do not discourage people from selling their home on their own. If they accomplish it without leaving money on the table, they are EARNING their 5%. I work with the same kind of people who hire a painter to paint their house, even though they can do it themselves.

I disagree with the point that agents always try to sell you their lisings first. Pehaps agents in a large city who cycle through new clientele all the time and do not work primarily from referrals do push thier own listings first. But if you work primarily on a referral basis you need to treat people right over the long term. They will tell their friends and relatives that your actually HELPED them, instead of SELLING them.