I recently read an interesting article that walked people through the steps of trying to determine whether they should try to sell their home on their own OR work with an real estate agent, like myself. Here are the things they think you should do:
· Interview several real estate agents. This could bolster your decision to do the work yourself or convince you to go with an agent, and also may provide information and tips that can help with your sale, according to dummies.com.
Marti's Thoughts: As an agent, I hope that I make more of an impression on them than "She was nice, but lets try this on our own." As far as giving tips on how to sell their home -without me-, I have worked hard for my experience in this business and it came at a price of spending time away from my family and money out of my pocket. I don't think that I will be giving that away for free!
· Put the right price on the home. Check what comparable homes have sold for in your area. Homes sales often are published in newspapers, and some real estate Web sites, such as www.for salebyowner.com, can help sellers find comparables for a fee.
Marti's Thoughts: This is what agents are TRAINED to do! A great agent knows exactly where to price your home to get it to move in the time you want it to.
· Market the home. Use a combination of methods to advertise and sell, including the Internet, classified newspaper ads, yard signs and flier boxes. Some FSBO companies offer listings on their Web sites and, for an additional fee, a listing on the traditional Multiple Listing Service used by real estate agents.
Marti's Thoughts: This can add up to a lot in $$$ and not to mention the time needed to research the best avenues when most of the time getting a home listed in the MLS (especially here in Kansas City and Olathe, KS) is the way to go.
· Be available. Once your home goes on the market, be ready to take phone calls, show the home when potential buyers want to see it and hold open houses, if necessary. Though there may be inconveniences to this, sellers also can take advantage of personally showing off upgrades and other special features of the home.
Marti's Thoughts: Again, a lot of time spent. If you have the time, great! But I know that I do because it is my job to make time for things like that.
Just some things to think about! If you would like to read the entire article it is at Buying into FSBO movement.
Good Luck and Have a great day!!!
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