Choosing a Real Estate agent to help you sell your home involves a bit more than just calling a Realtor and signing a contract with them. There are many factors and aspects about selling a home, the amount of time on the job is only one and should not necessarily be the deciding 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 properties has you agent sold? Was he/she the sellers agent, or the buyers agent? How many properties were sold at, or near, the asking price when agent acted as sellers agent? That is an important question. Some agents will prompt you to reduce the price substantially when negotiating with the buyer. That can mean you lose a lot of money, but it is a quick sale and fast commissions for the agent.
Some agents have a challenge negotiating with the buyers agent. Some do not have the skill, or the confidence to act on your behalf and get the best price for you. In a transaction involving a substantial amount of money you will want someone skilled and knowledgeable about bargaining and negotiating.
Besides listing your property on the MLS, what are other marketing plans? Advertisements? Open houses? What?
What is the availability of your agent? Will you, and potential buyers, have to wait hours, or over the weekend to get a response? Will she respond in the evening? Some agents take Sundays off, some are off in the evenings to spend time with their family. Make sure this is clear and agreeable to you.
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.
An agent should be chosen with care. All contracts have a time limit, and you could be forced to stay with an agent for months. Make sure it is an agent you like, trust and find competent.
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