Most of us sell only a small number of homes in our lifetimes. With limited experience
in real estate how are we capable of maximizing the profits from our home sale? Many
home sellers make the critical mistake of thinking all Realtors are the same. They list
with the first agent who comes along. Does it make good business sense to put the
responsibility of selling your home with someone who has no plan or qualifications?
This report will educate you with valuable information that will help you
make the best decision concerning: With which real estate agent should you list?
Start by doing a few hours of research. Ask around ... talk with someone who has had a
positive experience with a Realtor in your neighborhood. Find out which agents are highly
visible in your market area. Get to know who has the most web presence, ads and
marketing material in your neighborhood. Who's the most active agent? Compile a list
of agent names and use these questions to help you determine which agent is right for
you. Now you have the list ----Google each one to see how they compare. Make an
appointment and ask the prospective agents the following questions:
What does the listing agreement entail, what are the beginning and expiration dates,
and what are the fee amounts I will be paying?
Have your agent go over every detail in the listing agreement with you until you
understand it completely. Make sure the beginning and ending dates are on the
agreement; a good standard for length is four to six months. Know exactly what fees
you will be paying and remember that less is not always better. If the agent stands to
make very little commission you can bet it will be reflected in the amount of time and
effort that is spent marketing your home. If the agent reduces the commission to get
the listing it may mean they intend to spend very little money promoting the property.
What disclosure laws apply to me and what do I need to be aware of ?
Expect your agent to thoroughly explain the state required Seller's Disclosure Statement
and Lead Base Paint Disclosure. When completing these forms be sure to answer truthfully.
If the basement leaks, say so! We do not operate in a "Buyer Beware" real estate
environment and agents expect sellers to answer property condition statements
straightforwardly. The best method of dealing with any property defect or maintenance
requirement is to have it repaired or replaced prior to marketing the home. This prevents
a repair from becoming a negotiating issue.
What separates you from your competition and what kind of feedback will I receive
from you? How effectively will you advertise? Do you have 24-hour advertising
capability? Will all the leads be followed up on by your agent's team or will they go
to other agents who may have other listings they would prefer to show?
Agents who are innovative and offer new methods of attracting home buyers will
measurably outperform agents who rely on methods of the past. Marketing effectively
in today's market and beyond requires progressive strategies that add value and
service for both buyers and sellers!
10 Questions to Ask a Realtor Before You List Your Home ~ Part 1
10 Questions to Ask a Realtor Before You List Your Home ~ Part 2
10 Questions to Ask a Realtor Before You List Your Home ~ Part 3
All 10 Questions Can Be Viewed Here
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The authors of the this blog write about Grand Rapids Real Estate,
the Greater Grand Rapids MI area, and what it is like to live in
West Michigan. We believe: Grand Rapids is a Great Place to Live!
Westbrook Realty Grand Rapids MI Real Estate
Contact Terry 616-292-7263
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