Find an experienced realtor

Choosing a real estate professional you like and trust is one of the most important decisions you can make when selling your home or property.  An experienced realtor should understand your needs and can provide objective advice, help you define your priorities and create a plan action for the successful sale of your home.   Look for a realtor who is well connected to the local real estate market, has a formal marketing strategy, is assertive, and most importantly loyal to you.  Like most, your home is most likely your largest investment, and it’s worth it to consider the services of an experienced realtor to get the best deal for you as a seller.  Your realtor can:

• Provide a comprehensive market analysis (CMA) that compares your home to those of your neighbors
• Provide a detailed marketing plan to sell your home including local media and the internet
• Help you establish a selling price and proper expectations for the sales process
• Help you increase curb appeal and prepare your home for sale
• Assist with obtaining and negotiating offers/counter-offers from buyers
• Assist with closing and handle necessary paperwork
   

Marketing Your Home

An effective seller’s agent will work with you to effectively market your home and get the buzz out to prospective buyers.  In addition to being listed on MLS and the agent’s website, ask if your listing will be syndicated to other real estate portals and directories as well – this is great way to get exponential exposure online, where 80% of buyers start when looking for a home.  The internet provides realtors a cost effective way to promote your listing’s virtual curb appeal with compelling copy, images, and even virtual tours which are a great way to give qualified buyers a feel for your home without a walkthrough.

Negotiation & Guidance

As your negotiator, your agent should be assertive in seeking the best price and terms for you.  A good real estate agent should be on the same page with you about your sales goals and motives, and provide guidance when assessing offers from buyers and conveying counter offers.  There are many terms beyond price including buyer paid closing costs, repairs, or quick close consideration that may be advantageous to you as a seller.  Your agent can help you evaluate these and other non-price negotiating tools to determine the best solution with you.  They will also explain the costs of sale (fees, commissions, taxes, insurance, etc.) and help you prepare for closing by when you do find that committed buyer ready to enter into contract on your home. Your agent is your most valuable asset in the sales process – you empower them to represent you during negotiations by asking questions and agreeing on expectations up front.