Estimated read time: 3-4 minutes
Once you decide to sell your home, you might have questions about how to prepare it for listing and viewings by potential buyers. Working with a real estate agent who is a Realtor can help streamline this process. Here are some key considerations as you prepare to sell your home:
How to find the right agent to sell your home
If you're ready to sell your home, it's essential to find an agent who meets your needs and can effectively represent your interests. Here are ten important questions to ask when selecting an agent:
Are you a Realtor?
Working with an agent who is a Realtor ensures that they adhere to the Realtor® Code of Ethics, which requires them to protect and promote your best interests throughout the transaction.
What services do you provide?
A professional real estate agent will assist with marketing your property, coordinating showings and open houses, negotiating offers, handling paperwork, and guiding you through the closing process.
Are you familiar with my local market?
While all agents must be licensed in the state where they conduct transactions, a deep understanding of your specific market is invaluable. An experienced local agent can help position your home competitively and attract the right buyers.
What will be included in the listing contract?
Your listing agreement should outline the agent's responsibilities, the agreed-upon listing price, the duration of the contract, and details about agent compensation. There are a wide range of fees/commissions depending on what level of service your agent provides.
How do you determine the listing price for a home?
A knowledgeable agent will conduct a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) to assess similar recently sold homes in your area. Pricing your home accurately is crucial for attracting buyers and securing the best possible offer.
How will you market my home?
An effective marketing plan may include listing the property on the Multiple Listing Service (MLS), digital and print advertising, professional photography, virtual tours, social media campaigns, and open houses. Your agent should tailor a marketing strategy to maximize exposure and attract serious buyers.
How will you attract more potential buyers?
Competitive pricing, professional staging, high-quality listing photos, and strategic incentives — such as offers of compensation to buyer's agents and seller concessions to cover certain closing costs — can make your home more appealing to buyers.
What will you do to prepare the home for sale?
Your agent may recommend minor repairs, upgrades, and staging to enhance your home's appeal. Decluttering, deep cleaning, and improving curb appeal can also make a strong first impression on potential buyers.
How will you qualify potential buyers?
To avoid wasting time with unqualified buyers, your agent should ensure that interested parties provide pre-approval letters from lenders, confirming their ability to secure financing for the purchase.
Get references from previous clients
A reputable agent should be able to provide testimonials and references from previous clients who can speak to their professionalism, expertise, and effectiveness in selling homes.
Additional considerations when choosing an agent
Beyond the basic qualifications, consider an agent's experience, education, negotiation skills, and marketing expertise. A skilled agent should have a solid track record of successful transactions and a strategy tailored to your specific needs.
Some agents may hold specialized real estate designations or certifications, such as the Certified Residential Specialist (CRS) or Accredited Seller Representative (ASR), which indicate advanced training and expertise.
