Accurate Appraisals: The broker's experience translates into practical market analysis that cannot be duplicated without much time and effort. This avoids over-pricing—it can cost you dearly—as well as underpricing.

Marketing Ability: The broker is best able to get the home offering in front of potential buyers. Everyday experience provides a "feel" for attracting ready buyers.

Convenience: A broker is set up to screen "shoppers" (and even unsavory characters) who like to go from house to house just looking. A broker is always available to answer the phone and make appointments.

Confidentiality: No one on the block need know you're selling because brokers don't have to use a lawn sign (some communities outlaw them).

Financing Sources: Brokers have contacts that permit more liberal financing. Better financing means a chance for a higher asking price.

Negotiating Know-How: The ability to talk pricing requires experience from doing deals day-in and day-out. The broker earns more when the seller gets more for the house.

Faster Deals: Offerings that don't sell quickly get a reputation for being "clinkers," and their pricing suffers. The broker has the savvy to prevent your offer from stagnating.

Independent/Accurate Inspections: A believable home inspection report, made before the very first buyer shows at the door, raises the value of your home. A licensed real estate broker only can order such inspections from Country-Wide Independent Inspections, Inc.

Tax Savings: An often-overlooked benefit is the tax deductibility of the broker's commission. The commission comes off the profit you make before taxes.