If you're a homeowner in the Madison area, you've probably received a few postcards from realtors saying they've got a buyer for your home. The thing to remember is that for every postcard you receive, there are dozens of other buyers out there who would love to purchase your home, too (if only they knew it was available).
The buyer benefits from the quiet sale.
The seller benefits from competition.
As the seller, you get to choose: You get to choose whether you want to participate in an open market or a closed market. Two very distinct options, with each option offering a different experience and a different outcome.