Selling your home for the highest price in the shortest amount of time can be difficult in a constantly changing real estate market.  If you are not familiar with the process, it is intimidating and overwhelming to navigate.  That is where a Realtor®, or specifically a listing agent, comes in.  A listing agent: advises you on how to prepare your home for sale, helps to determine the best list price for your property, implements an extensive marketing plan to ensure your home is in front of the right buyers, negotiates a strong offer for you, and guides you through the closing process.  But how do you select the right Realtor®?

Sellers often make the mistake of going with friends, family, or the first Realtor® they meet.  Not interviewing and researching your Realtor® can negatively impact you financially, increase the time it takes to sell your property, and make the selling process more stressful.  Before making your choice, research the agent online and arrange a time to discuss their experience and style of business.  You can use the 10 questions below as a starting point.  A good Realtor® will help relieve your stress and leave you confident that you got the best deal. Take your time to find a Realtor® that you trust.

1. How Many Homes Have You Sold This Year?

An experienced agent helps your home sell for the highest price in the shortest amount of time.  Ask for the specific addresses he or she has sold.

2. How Did You Determine My List Price?

Your agent should walk you through a detailed Comparable Market Analysis (CMA) for your property to show how they determined your list price. To learn more about CMAs, check out this blog post: Zestimates® vs. CMAs

3. How Will You Market My Property?

Professional photography & videos, open houses, and online marketing are a must.  Additionally, make sure the agent will be entering the home in the Multiple Listing Service.

4. How Much Will My Closing Costs Be?

No one likes surprises at the closing table.  Your agent should give you a detailed estimate of expenses so you can budget accordingly.  Check out this closing cost estimator to complete an estimate of your own: Seller Closing Cost Calculator

5. What is Your Commission and Fees?

Every agent charges different fees and percentages.  Do not be afraid to negotiate, but remember the cheapest agent is not always the best choice. 

6. What Should I Do to Prepare My Home for Sale?

Your agent will share valuable tips on what repairs and maintenance needs to be completed before listing, including if he or she recommends staging.

7. How Will You Communicate with Me?

Communication is crucial to successfully coordinate showings and negotiate offers. Weekly updates on buyer activity and tour feedback also is a must.

8. How Long Do Your Listings Take to Sell?

Don’t accept generic answers.  You need a specific timeline with supporting evidence for your planning purposes and to hold the agent accountable later. 

9. Will I be Working Directly With You?

Most agents work in teams now.  You may also be working with a support person at certain times, but the agent (or agents) should be doing most of the work. 

10. Can I Speak to A Past Client of Yours?

Talking to a past client is the best way to know the agent’s success rate and work ethic.  Online reviews may be a good option as well.

Contact Laura About Selling Your Home!