Choosing a Real Estate Agent? Read This First

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.

The listing agent, (the sellers agent) is the one placing your property information on the MLS which is the nation wide database where all listings listed with a licensed Realtor will be shown. Some listing agents will do that, and nothing more, waiting for an agent to call with a prospective buyer.

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.

What will the agent do for you besides placing the listing on the MLS? Where else will there be ads? Will there be open houses where people can come and see the property?

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.

Don't rush selecting your agent. You will be working with this person for many months, and canceling a contract may be difficult and or, costly. Take the time to know you have chosen a competent, positive agent that you will like working with.

By Agneta Ullman