There are over 1.36 million members of the National Association of Realtors. This number has steadily risen since 2012 and reflects the recovery of the market for property and is now at an all-time high. With so many players in the market, how do you choose the right listing agent for your property?
When it comes to choosing a listing agent, having a plan is very important. Here are 7 very important things you must know before choosing a listing agent.
Listing Agent
When you decide to sell a property your decision about a listing agent may make a big difference to how much money you make from a sale and how quickly you sell your property. Not all selling agents are the same.
Agents differ in how effective they are at selling. They also don't all charge the same fees. Choosing the right listing agent for you takes some detailed research.
1. Track Record
Ask a prospective selling agent about their performance. Ask for a report on the original list price and final sale price for real estate they have sold. This will tell you how accurately they predicted the selling price.
Some agents will flatter their prospective clients with inflated claims about what they can get for your property. When it doesn't sell, the price reductions can undermine buyer confidence. Chose an agent that is realistic about selling price and sells the property within a reasonable timescale.
2. Great Photography
Look at the standard of photography they have for the portfolio of property they currently represent. Is it attractive, professional and high impact? Would you buy property from them?
A photograph is often the first thing you see when you are buying a property. It is the hook that attracts you to look further. It has to be effective.
3. Marketing Capability
A professional listing agent is not a passive seller of your property. They are actively communicating and searching for a buyer for your property. Check out their marketing capability.
Do they use digital marketing techniques including social media? Do they advertise in the local press? Do they market through their own and major websites?
4. Professionalism
You can check out the professionalism of a listing agent by researching their qualifications and membership of industry bodies. For example, members of the National Association of Realtors have to follow a code of conduct. They also provide their members with up to day information about regulations and good practice.
5. Reputation
Check the web for information about the reputation of listing agents. Previous clients will have posted reviews. Ask the agents for details of previous clients who are happy to talk to you but remember that unscrupulous agents are not likely to pass on details of unhappy customers.
Ask work colleagues, neighbors and family for their suggestions. A good reputation and personal recommendation are worth far more than any glossy brochure.
6. Local Experience
A little local knowledge can be very important for a listing agent. Ask for details of other properties they have sold in your area. Ask them about the real estate market in your area and check that they know their stuff.
7. Relevant
Check that the listing agent has relevant experience with the kind of property you want to sell. If yours is a "difficult to sell" home, do they have experience of successfully selling that kind of property. Check that they operate in the right price range for your property.
Choose Wisely
A little preparation reaps rewards. Take a little extra time to research before choosing a listing agent. It may make a big difference in dollars and time.
Contact us to talk about listing your property.