The Hard Way 

Selling your house through a real estate agent can be a lengthy and expensive process.

First, you will need to prepare the property for sale. You will need to make repairs and address any deferred maintenance issues. This can be expensive and time consuming.

During the listing period, you will be expected to keep the property clean and neat at all times, as potential buyers may request a showing at any time. During a showing, you will typically be asked to leave the property. This poses a significant inconvenience for most people.

Once you find a buyer, it's far from over. A 'clean' transaction, usually takes several months from the time you list the property, until you actually receive a check. Sometimes it can take much longer if, for example, the buyer's financing falls-through. There can also be unacceptable issues raised during the home inspection. In these situations, you are forced to start over, wasting months of time.

Once you do finally get your check, it won't be as big as you had expected. You will have paid your real estate agent a handsome commission, in addition to standard closing costs.