12 Steps to Take to Sell in ‘12: Step 4

Find the Right Agent

By Jen Ross – Real Estate Agent/Relocation Specialist

There are several key things to be aware of when getting ready to list your house for sale, among them, finding the right agent is first.

Interviewing agents can be like screening for a babysitter: you need to find the one you feel most comfortable with while still having the qualifications to take care of your most important investment.

Choosing an agent should not be based solely on who tells you they can sell your house for the most money.

When comparing agents, their style and personality are good indicators of whether or not you feel they are a good match for you, but what about concrete factors? An agent should be able to produce a biography, their background and past sales history so that you know they have a proven track record.

They should go through their advertising/marketing plan for your house and have examples to show you.

They should offer honest advice for pricing and preparing your home for sale.

They should explain their communication and follow-up procedure as well as the process for listing your house with them, including a timeline for how long it will take to get the house officially “on the market”.

After you have collected all the information and can make a decision about which agent is the best fit, you should expect them to promptly deliver the listing paperwork to you and explain it in detail.  You should expect an agent to ensure that your house goes on the market according to the timeline you were presented and for them to follow up with you and contact you as they said they would during the listing appointment.

You should expect that your house, if priced correctly, will sell and that your agent (always having your best interest at heart) will be there for you throughout the entire process.