Selling a house is a complex process with much room for error. Having an experienced, professional seller’s agent by your side can make all the difference. A bit of thoughtful research can help you find a trustworthy and reliable agent who will help you sell your property quickly, efficiently, and for top dollar.
The Importance of Choosing the Right Agent
A great agent can make all the difference in getting top dollar for your home, protecting your legal interests, and ensuring a smooth and profitable transaction.
Seek an agent with experience who knows the ins and outs of the real estate market and can offer expert advice on pricing, staging, and marketing your home.
The right agent will possess transparency, honesty, and open communication, keeping you informed every step of the way.
On the flip side, choosing an inexperienced or untrustworthy agent — or not hiring an agent, could result in severe consequences. Not working with a qualified real estate agent could lead to a much slower sale process and much less money in your pocket. Investing time upfront researching agents and understanding how they work can save you time and money.
The Role of a Seller's Agent in Real Estate
A real estate agent does far more than stick a “For Sale” sign in your yard. There are several tasks a seller’s agent will perform to help you sell your home in the fastest way possible and for the highest sales price.
Selling your home can be intimidating and complicated, but it can be simplified and less stressful with the right seller’s agent by your side! Here are the top responsibilities of a seller’s agent and how they can help you throughout the home-selling journey:
Price it right: Your seller’s agent will use their expertise to determine a fair market price for your home.
Show it off: They’ll give you tips and tricks to make your home look remarkable, so it stands out to potential buyers.
List it: Your agent will create a comprehensive listing for your home with beautiful photos and all the vital details.
Market it: They’ll use creative marketing techniques to get your home in front of as many potential buyers as possible.
Show it off: Your agent will arrange and host open houses and private showings.
Find the right buyers: They’ll screen and qualify potential buyers to ensure they’re serious and financially qualified.
Negotiate offers: Your seller’s agent will help you navigate the offers and negotiate the best deal on your behalf.
Manage the process: They’ll oversee the transaction and keep you on track with critical deadlines.
Provide advice: Your agent will provide you with professional, expert advice, including legal requirements, market trends, and other important information.
Close the deal: They’ll coordinate the final walkthrough, sign the closing documents, and transfer your home ownership to the buyer.
Where to Look for Real Estate Agents
Starting with your inner circle can be an excellent way to begin your search for real estate agents. Ask friends and family who they’ve worked with, their experience, and if they’d recommend their agent.
Then take your search to the streets—look around your neighborhood for any “For Sale” signs you see, taking note of any agents that appear more than once. Seeing an agent on multiple signs indicates they work successfully in your area.
Next, hop onto social media and dig around for ratings, reviews, and recommendations from others who have previously worked with specific agents.
Browse agent websites to get a feel for how they conduct their business.
Real Estate Agent Commissions
Real estate agents work on commission, typically 5-6% of the home’s sales price. Depending on the market, location, or property type you are selling, this may vary.
Ask your agent to explain their commission structure and ensure it is clearly outlined in the contract before you sign on the line. It is also crucial to ask whether additional costs or fees are associated with their services.
Interviewing Seller's Agents
Try to interview three or more agents. Interviewing multiple agents will give you an idea of the industry’s services, qualifications, and rates. It will also allow you to gauge personalities to ensure you hire an agent you’re compatible with. It’s important that you feel confident and comfortable with your agent and that you can openly ask questions. Do the agents answer your questions efficiently and in a friendly manner, or do you feel strain in the communication?
- How long have you worked as a seller’s agent?
- How long have you worked in this specific area?
- What can you tell me about the area schools, parks, transportation, and amenities?
- How many properties did you sell last year?
- What was your average sales price last year?
- On average, how long did it take each property to sell?
- What services do you provide to ensure a successful sale?
- What sales price would you suggest for my house?
- What advice can you offer for preparing my home for sale?
- How will you market and promote my property?
- How do you communicate with clients? Do you prefer email, text, or phone?
- How often should I expect communication from you?
- Can you provide references from past clients?
- What is your commission rate/fee structure for selling my home?
Conclusion
Real estate agents are valuable assets when it comes to selling your property.
Before making any deals or signing any contracts, thoroughly research and interview real estate agents and be comfortable that all your questions are answered to the best of their ability. Doing so will help you and your agent establish a strong working relationship that results in a successful sale.
