Why Discounting Your Agent Can Cost You: The Real Value of a Professional Realtor in Coastal North Carolina

Stop Shopping for Cheap When It Comes to Selling Your Biggest Asset

It still baffles me when someone calls and asks, “How much (they mean little) will you charge to sell my house?”

Now, I get it—everyone wants to save money. But your home isn’t a yard sale item. It’s one of your largest financial assets, and treating it like a discount service opportunity can actually cost you more in the long run.

When you need a surgeon or a attorney, (not claiming I have the skills of a surgeon) you don’t shop for the cheapest—you look for the one with experience, skill, and a proven track record. The same logic applies to real estate.

Your Home Deserves More Than a Discount

Experience Isn’t Expensive—It’s Invaluable

Selling a home takes far more than snapping photos and putting a sign in the yard. It’s pricing strategy, market knowledge, negotiation skills, marketing expertise, and constant communication.

When you hire a seasoned real estate professional, you’re not just hiring someone to “list your home.” You’re hiring a strategist who knows how to:

• Position your property to stand out in the market

• Negotiate strong terms that protect your bottom line

• Anticipate issues before they derail a deal

• Keep your sale moving smoothly all the way to closing

  
  

That’s what true value looks like.

Cheap Agents Often Cost You More

Going with the cheapest agent might feel like savings at first—but what happens when your home sits longer than it should or sells for less than it’s worth? A “discount” agent can end up being the most expensive choice you make.

Full-service agents don’t cut corners. They invest in professional marketing, quality photography, online visibility, and time-tested strategies to get your home sold faster and for more money.

Because when it comes to your largest financial asset, “cheap” shouldn’t be the goal—results should.

Professionalism Has a Price—and It’s Worth Every Penny

I’m proud of the work I do, and I take every listing personally. Selling your home isn’t just about a commission—it’s about helping you move forward with confidence.

I don’t do this halfway, and I don’t do it for free.

As my broker says, “I may charge you 6%, but I’m worth 12.”And I stand by that, because when you hire a professional who’s all-in, you’ll see the difference from start to finish.

When it comes to selling your biggest investment:

✅ Don’t shop for cheap.

✅ Shop for competence.

✅ Shop for trust.

✅ Shop for results.

Your home deserves more than the lowest bidder—it deserves a professional who knows how to protect your value, your equity, and your peace of mind.

About the Author

Kim Cotton is a real estate professional with RE/MAX Southern Coast, proudly serving Coastal North Carolina—including Southport, Oak Island, Holden Beach, Bolivia, Calabash and surrounding communities. Known for her honesty, expertise, and straight-shooting style, Kim believes real estate should be handled with integrity, transparency, and a touch of fun.

Whether helping clients relocate, invest in a second home, or sell their coastal property, Kim’s motto stays the same—“Keeping it REAL Estate.”

A great agent doesn’t cut corners—she markets strategically.