To List With an Agent, Sell FSBO, or Sell to an Investor in Chicago?

If you're preparing to sell your house in Chicago, Illinois, you're probably asking yourself: Should I list with an agent, sell FSBO, or sell to an investor? It's one of the most important decisions you’ll make, and it can drastically affect how fast your home sells, how much effort it takes, and how much you walk away with. At Heartland Funding Inc., we understand that no two sellers are the same, and we're here to break down these three common options so you can choose what’s right for your situation.

List With an Agent

Listing with a real estate agent is still the most traditional and hands-off way to sell your house. If your property is in good condition and you’re not in a rush to sell, this might be your best bet.

Agents typically take care of everything—from pricing strategy and staging to professional photos, showings, and negotiations. They also know the ins and outs of contracts and local real estate laws in Illinois. That alone can save you stress and costly mistakes.

Another major benefit is exposure. Agents list your home on the MLS, which gets it in front of the largest pool of potential buyers. They may also already have contacts looking for homes like yours.

But keep in mind: real estate commissions usually run around 5-6% of your sale price. Plus, you might still need to make repairs or updates to attract offers.

Sell FSBO (For Sale By Owner)

Going the For Sale By Owner (FSBO) route appeals to homeowners who want more control over the process. You set your price, manage showings, and negotiate directly with buyers. And of course, you don’t have to pay a listing agent’s commission, which can mean more money in your pocket.

However, FSBO requires serious time and energy. You’ll be responsible for everything from marketing and paperwork to understanding the legal requirements of a real estate transaction in Chicago. Many sellers who go this route underestimate how challenging and time-consuming it can be.

Also, FSBO homes often sell for less than agent-listed homes because buyers know you're saving on commission and may offer lower prices accordingly.

Sell to a Real Estate Investor

If you need to sell quickly, your house needs work, or you just want a hassle-free process, selling to a professional real estate investor like Heartland Funding Inc. could be your best option.

We buy houses in as-is condition, so you don’t have to fix a thing. You skip inspections, repairs, showings, and long waits. We make fair cash offers based on your home’s current condition and the local Chicago market. No commissions. No hidden fees. Just a simple sale that works on your timeline.

Many of our clients come to us when they’re dealing with inherited properties, need to relocate, or simply want to avoid the headaches of the traditional selling process.

Which Option Is Right for You?

Ultimately, it comes down to your priorities. If time and convenience are the most important factors, selling to an investor might make the most sense. If maximizing profit is your goal and you’re not in a rush, listing with an agent could be worth it. If you want full control and have the time to handle everything, FSBO may be a fit.

At Heartland Funding Inc., we’ve helped hundreds of Chicago homeowners make the right move for their situation. If you’re still asking yourself whether to list with an agent, sell FSBO, or sell to an investor, let’s talk.

📞 Call us at (800) 255-8250 or click here to fill out our quick form. Whether you want a fair cash offer or a trusted agent referral, we’ve got you covered.