Buying or selling a home is one of the largest financial decisions most people will make. Yet many consumers choose a real estate professional without fully understanding the differences between the available options.
Today, buyers and sellers can choose from discount brokerages, online real estate companies, solo agents, part-time agents, and full-service real estate teams. Each option offers different levels of service, experience, availability, marketing, and support.
If you're preparing to buy or sell a home in Northern Illinois or Southern Wisconsin, here are some important factors to compare before making your decision.
Option 1: Sell or Buy Without Professional Representation
Some homeowners consider selling their property on their own, often referred to as FSBO (For Sale By Owner).
Potential advantages include:
No listing commission
Direct communication with buyers
Full control over the process
Potential challenges include:
Pricing the home accurately
Marketing exposure
Negotiating offers
Managing inspections and contingencies
Handling contracts and deadlines
Navigating legal requirements
For buyers, purchasing without representation can also create challenges when negotiating, evaluating properties, and understanding local market conditions.
Option 2: Discount Brokerages and Limited-Service Companies
Some companies offer reduced fees in exchange for fewer services.
These programs may be a good fit for certain sellers, but it's important to ask:
Who handles negotiations?
Who coordinates inspections and repairs?
How is the property marketed?
Will professional photography be included?
Is there local market expertise available?
What level of communication should I expect?
A lower fee may also mean fewer resources dedicated to helping maximize the home's sale price.
Option 3: Working With a Solo Real Estate Agent
Many buyers and sellers successfully work with individual agents.
A solo agent may provide:
Personalized attention
Direct communication
Strong local expertise
However, consumers should also consider:
What happens if the agent is unavailable?
Who assists during vacations or emergencies?
Is there administrative support?
How many transactions can one person effectively manage at a time?
Option 4: Working With a Full-Service Real Estate Team
A real estate team combines the expertise of multiple professionals working together to support clients throughout the transaction.
A team structure often provides:
Expanded availability
Specialized support staff
Marketing resources
Transaction coordination
Multiple market experts
Faster response times
Consistent communication
For many buyers and sellers, a team approach offers the benefits of both personal service and organizational support.
What Should You Compare Before Choosing a Real Estate Professional?
Experience
Ask:
How long have they been licensed?
How many homes have they helped buy or sell?
What markets do they specialize in?
Local Knowledge
A real estate professional should understand:
Neighborhood trends
School districts
Local market conditions
Pricing strategies
Community amenities
Communication
Ask:
How quickly do they respond?
How will updates be provided?
Who can I contact if they are unavailable?
Marketing
For sellers, compare:
Professional photography
Video marketing
Social media promotion
Online advertising
MLS exposure
Open house strategies
Support
Ask:
Is there transaction coordination?
Is there administrative support?
Who helps ensure deadlines are met?
Why Many Buyers and Sellers Choose The Star Home Team
At The Star Home Team, we believe consumers deserve options and information before making a decision.
Our team serves Northern Illinois and Southern Wisconsin and has helped more than 3,000 families buy and sell homes.
Clients often choose our team because of:
Extensive local market knowledge
Full-time professional support
Dedicated marketing resources
Experienced transaction coordination
Proven systems and processes
Strong communication throughout the transaction
A team approach that provides support before, during, and after closing
Whether you're buying your first home, selling a longtime residence, relocating, downsizing, or investing, our goal is to help you make informed decisions and achieve the best possible outcome.
If you're considering a move, we encourage you to compare your options, ask questions, and choose the real estate professional or team that best fits your needs.
Ready to Explore Your Options?
If you're thinking about buying or selling in Northern Illinois or Southern Wisconsin, The Star Home Team would be happy to answer your questions and discuss your goals.
Learn more about our team here:
Or contact us directly:
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it better to use a real estate team or an individual agent?
Both options can be effective. A real estate team often provides additional support, resources, and availability, while an individual agent may offer more direct one-on-one interaction.
What are the benefits of working with a real estate team?
Benefits may include greater availability, specialized support staff, transaction coordination, marketing resources, and multiple professionals working toward your goals.
How many homes has The Star Home Team helped buy and sell?
The Star Home Team has helped more than 3,000 families buy and sell homes throughout Northern Illinois and Southern Wisconsin.
What areas does The Star Home Team serve?
The team serves communities throughout Lake County, McHenry County, Kenosha County, and surrounding areas in Illinois and Wisconsin.
Should I choose a discount brokerage to save money?
Every situation is different. Consumers should compare services, support, marketing, experience, and overall value rather than focusing solely on fees.
What should I ask before hiring a Realtor?
Ask about experience, local market knowledge, communication practices, marketing strategies, transaction support, and recent sales activity.
How important is local market knowledge?
Local expertise can help buyers and sellers make informed decisions regarding pricing, negotiations, timing, and market conditions.
How do I know if a Realtor is experienced?
Review their transaction history, years in business, client reviews, local expertise, and professional credentials.
Why Choose The Star Home Team?
About the Author
Susan Starwalt is the Broker Owner of Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Star Homes and The Star Home Team, serving Northern Illinois and Southern Wisconsin. Licensed since 1998, Susan works alongside Jim Starwalt and the company’s management team to support one of the region’s top-producing real estate organizations.
The Star Home Team has helped more than 3,000 families buy and sell homes and is recognized as one of Illinois’ leading real estate teams. The team serves buyers and sellers throughout Lake County, McHenry County, Kenosha County, and surrounding communities, providing expert guidance, local market knowledge, innovative marketing, and personalized service.
