So you have decided to sell your house, and you are looking for a real estate agent to represent you. Here are just a few suggestions of a few things you may want to know about your agent before contracting with them. The number of years on the job is only one factor…
Bear in mind that some listing agents will place your listing on the MLS and then just wait for the phone to ring from the agent who has a possible buyer and not do anything else but that.
How many homes has this agent sold? Many agents work part time, are new, or have had their license for a long time, but still do not have many sales. How many of the sales were as the sellers agent? Did the homes listed sell for the asking price, or a price close to the asking price? In other words, is this agent skilled in negotiations or will she quickly settle for a lower price to get the deal done? (And losing you a lot of money)
Real Estate agents are like the rest of us. Some do not have the confidence to ask for things as in negotiating the best deal for you. Some may just not have the skill or personality. Selling a house involves a large sum of money. You will want to know that your agent can and will negotiate well on your behalf.
Besides placing your listing on the MLS, what other marketing plans does this agent have? Ads? Will they host open houses? Will those open houses be advertised somewhere to draw the largest amount of house-shoppers?
The availability of your agent is yet another important consideration. Will he/she be available during evenings and weekends? How long before they respond to a call from you or a potential buyer? When negotiations are underway and there are time limits in the contract, having an unresponsive agent can sink your deal.
The personality of your agent is another important factor. A pessimistic, slow, unmotivated agent could kill your deal. Look for someone who is enthusiastic, willing to put in some effort, someone with a positive sunny disposition.
Take some care and thought before selecting someone that you will be forced to work with for many months. Take your time, interview several agents. Ask around for referrals. Make sure you get the best agent for you and your deal.
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