Choosing a Real Estate Agent - Part One
A smart seller doesn't let personal relationships get in the way of sound business judgment when choosing an agent to market his house. He chooses an agent through a process that weighs personal qualities and professional expertise.
Although there are new options for marketing your house today, working with a professional real estate agent is the best approach, because selling your house is a complex legal process. A Realtor® is likely to have the expertise you need for best results, and they're held to the highest ethical standards. If you don't have an established working relationship with an agent, how do you find the best one? Your house is one of your major assets, so don't let personal ties get in the way of sound business judgment. Look for an agent to effectively market your house and ensure that the process, including the marketing materials and disclosures about the property, meet legal requirements. Choose someone whose personal characteristics blend well with yours, because smart selling is a team effort.
Ideally you will collect recommendations, conduct preliminary telephone interviews, choose finalists to make an initial listing presentation, then choose an agent. Do not expect to set the listing price until you've found the right agent and he has an opportunity to research comparable properties and develop a marketing plan.
Begin the selection process by asking for recommendations. Choose a few agents for a preliminary telephone interview and ask questions: How much experience do you have? Do you work as a Realtor® full time? What about professional credentials or special training? Do you belong to the Board of Realtors® and have access to MLS (Multiple Listing Service)? What internet expertise and capabilities do you have? How will you generate prospects from other areas? Who can I call if you're not available? You're interested in the agent's record, but keep in mind that some traditional criteria might not be so useful today because of difficult market conditions, and might not tell the whole story about the agent's effectiveness. As you conduct the telephone interview, consider these things: How well did the agent communicate? Did he listen to you and explain things satisfactorily? Was he professional and polite? Did you have a sense of rapport? Once you've chosen the finalists, make an appointment for the first of two listing presentations. We'll discuss those next.
Smart Selling Tip: A smart seller doesn't let personal relationships get in the way of sound business judgment when choosing an agent to market his house. He chooses an agent through a process that weighs personal qualities and professional expertise.
©2009 Sandy LeRoy and Mary Stephens
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