Finding Reliable Realtors
Nearly two-thirds of the people who sell their home say
they wouldn't do it themselves again, according to research by the National
Association of Realtors®. Sellers surveyed point to difficulties in setting a
price, marketing handicaps and liability concerns among the primary reasons they
would turn to a Realtor® next time.
Selling a home yourself usually eats up more time and
effort than you might initially expect. Once you understand how much work it
will be to sell it yourself, talk to a Realtor® you trust even if you decide to
strike out on your own.
Many top
professionals are more than willing to help do-it-yourself sellers with the
paperwork, contracts, etc. Plus you'll have a relationship with an agent if
problems do arise that require professional help.
If you decide to
work with a Realtor®, contact four or five-you probably met a few that you liked
during your open house tour. Explain to each that you're thinking about putting
your home on the market and you'd like to meet to talk about pricing and
marketing. By having this group "evaluation" done, you should end up with a
fairly tight price range to help guide your decision. Any Realtor® who is
substantially higher or lower than the group should be able to justify their
estimate. Just as you should be concerned with too low of a price, beware of an
agent who gives you the highest price-they may be trying to buy your listing.
A good Realtor® will know
the market and your neighborhood in particular. They will supply you with
information on past sales, current listings, a marketing plan, something on
their own background, and references from past clients. Take the time to
carefully evaluate candidates on the basis of their experience, qualifications,
enthusiasm, and personality. Most importantly, make sure you choose someone who
is going to put in a lot of hard work on your behalf.
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