By Sean Colón
FSBOs think they can save money until they see the power of pro marketing. Learn how Arizona Realtors can approach FSBO sellers by offering visual proof that professional photography leads to higher offers (and fewer headaches).
Why FSBO Sellers Are on the Rise in Arizona
In 2025, Arizona’s real estate market is seeing a notable increase in FSBO (For Sale By Owner) listings. According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), FSBOs accounted for about 10% of home sales nationally in 2024, with Arizona trending slightly higher due to rising commissions and increased seller access to online listing tools.
At first glance, FSBO sellers believe they can save on commission costs. However, the data tells a different story. NAR reported that the median FSBO sale price was $310,000, compared to $405,000 for agent-assisted sales. That’s nearly a 30% difference in value. For Arizona Realtors, this represents both a challenge and a massive opportunity: positioning yourself as the solution to sellers leaving money on the table.
Why Photography Is the Key to Winning FSBO Listings
Arizona FSBO sellers often underestimate the role that professional real estate photography plays in buyer perception and final sales price. In today’s market, 97% of homebuyers begin their search online (NAR, 2024), which means the first impression is made through listing photos.
Here’s where Realtors can differentiate themselves:
Professional photos can increase perceived home value by up to 13% (Redfin).
Listings with high-quality photography receive 118% more online views than those with amateur photos.
Homes shot with DSLR-level equipment sell 32% faster than homes with low-quality images.
For FSBO sellers trying to “DIY” their way through a home sale, this is the proof they need. Realtors who lead with a photography-first approach can easily demonstrate how professional visuals attract more buyers, generate higher offers, and ultimately net the seller more money even after commissions are paid.
Turning Photography Into a Listing Strategy
When approaching FSBO sellers in Arizona, Realtors can use professional photography as both a conversation starter and a value proposition. Instead of leading with a hard pitch, lead with visual evidence:
Show the data: Share stats on how professional photos impact time on market and final sale price.
Use examples: Present side-by-side comparisons of pro photography vs. FSBO-style smartphone photos.
Highlight buyer psychology: Buyers scrolling through Zillow or Redfin will skip listings with poor visuals. Sellers need to understand they are losing leads before they even start.
Offer a solution, not a critique: Rather than telling FSBOs what they did wrong, frame photography as an upgrade that helps them reach their true goal — maximizing profit with less stress.
Pro tip: Use your own photography portfolio as a live case study. Arizona sellers are more likely to respond to local proof than generic industry statistics.
Why This Matters in Arizona’s 2025 Market
Arizona’s housing market has cooled from the breakneck pace of 2021–2022, but demand remains strong. As of Q1 2025, Metro Phoenix inventory has increased by nearly 22% year-over-year, creating more competition for sellers. FSBO listings often struggle in this environment because they lack the professional marketing edge that helps homes stand out.
Realtors who combine smart marketing strategies with professional photography have the advantage. Instead of fighting FSBOs for listings with generic sales scripts, you can present yourself as a marketing partner who brings buyers through the door.
How to Position Yourself to FSBO Sellers
When crafting your pitch, keep the focus on outcomes sellers care about:
Higher offers: Pro photos = more buyers = stronger competition.
Faster sales: FSBO listings sit longer; Realtor-assisted homes with professional visuals move faster.
Less stress: Handling showings, negotiations, and contracts is overwhelming for sellers. Pairing Realtor expertise with professional marketing gives them peace of mind.
You’re not just selling real estate services — you’re selling a smoother, more profitable selling experience.
Call to Action: Give Your FSBO Strategy a Visual Edge
If you’re ready to win more listings from FSBO sellers in Arizona, it’s time to lead with visuals. Professional real estate photography is not just an add-on service, it’s the foundation of a winning marketing strategy.
I specialize in creating high-quality, conversion-driven photography for Arizona Realtors that helps listings stand out, attract buyers, and close faster. Visit SeanColon.com to see how professional photography can give you the marketing edge you need in today’s competitive Arizona real estate market.
By the way, I help realtors improve their online and social media presence by providing beautiful photos of their listings. That is why I’ve created this FREE HOME PREP LIST for your clients to help your listings look their best. Feel free to share.