Are you thinking of selling your house? If so, it’s important to choose the right real estate agent. There are many agents out there, and not all of them are created equal. So, how do you choose the right one? Here are a few tips.
The Difference Between a Buyers' Agent and Sellers' Agent
When you’re selling a house, you have two options: you can hire a buyers’ agent or a sellers’ agent.
A buyers’ agent represents the buyer in the transaction and works to get the best deal for them. A sellers’ agent represents the seller and tries to get the highest price possible for them.
Although some agents represent both buyers and sellers, you may have more luck finding one who specializes exclusively in sales.
Ask for Referrals
Chances are, someone you know recently sold a house or may have experience with someone who has. Ask your friends, family, co-workers, and associates if they’ve had any experiences with real estate agents.
Take Your Search Social Media
Social media allows you to ask for recommendations, where you can also check out ratings and read reviews. This can help you determine if the agent should make your list of potentials to be interviewed once your list is comprised.
Visit Agent Websites
Once you’ve started compiling a list of potential sellers’ agents, visit their websites. Determine if their websites are professional high-quality and if they provide information you can use. Look for photographs of the agent for a personal reference point, and see how you feel while browsing their internet presence.
Check For Sale Signs in Your Neighborhood
If you see a sign that indicates an agent is selling a home in your area, take note of their contact info and website. It’s even better if you notice the same agent on more than one sign.
You might also get lucky enough to eye-spy an open house or two in your community. Stop by and introduce yourself as a potential seller. Not only will this introduce you to a professional in real estate who clearly works in your area, but it will also allow you to see, in person, how they conduct their business since you’ll see how they’re showing the home they’re in.
Interview Real Estate Agents
Now that you’ve narrowed it down, it’s time for the final step: interviewing at least three agents. This will give you an idea of how each one communicates, what their process is like, and if they’re a good fit for you.
Ask questions about things that are important to you, such as how long they think it will take to sell your home and what kind of marketing they’ll do.
If possible, try to get a sense of their personality – this can be helpful in making your decision. You should feel comfortable with the agent since you’ll be working with them closely throughout the selling process.
It’s important to choose wisely when selecting a real estate agent to sell your house. By following these tips, you’re sure to find the perfect one for you.
Here are some common questions you may want to ask a sellers’ agent in an interview:
- How many years have you been selling real estate?
- What is your average sale price?
- What percentage of homes do you sell above the asking price?
- Do you have a marketing plan in place for my home?
- Can I see some recent examples of your work?
- Are you comfortable representing me during negotiations?
- Have you ever had to deal with a difficult negotiation? If so, how did you handle it?
- What do you think is the biggest challenge I’ll face in selling my home?
- Do you have any contacts with lenders, home stagers, or contractors that you could recommend?
- How often will we communicate during the sale process?
- What is your commission rate?
- Will you be representing me exclusively, or will you be working with other agents as well?
- What is your availability? Can I contact you in the evenings and weekends?
- How do you prefer to be paid (up front, at closing, or a combination)?
- Do you have any questions for me?
This is a great time to ask any questions you have about the selling process.
The agent should be able to answer all of your questions, and if they can’t, they should be willing to find out the answers for you.Remember, you’re interviewing them just as much as they’re interviewing you!
Once you’ve selected an agent, it’s important to sign a listing agreement with them. This document outlines the expectations and responsibilities of both the seller and the agent. Be sure to read it thoroughly and ask any questions you may have before signing.
Conclusion
If you’re thinking of selling your house, it’s important to choose the right real estate agent. Not all agents are created equal – some have more experience than others, some have better marketing plans, and some may be more comfortable representing you during negotiations.
Start by asking for referrals from people you know. Social media is also a great resource for finding recommendations and reading reviews. Once you’ve narrowed down your list of potential sellers’ agents, visit their websites and see if they meet your standards. You should also look for sale signs in your neighborhood to get contact information for any agents selling homes in your area.
Interview at least three agents to ask them questions about their experience, what they would do differently in your situation, and what marketing plan they have in place. Remember to ask about their availability, commission rate, and how they prefer to be paid.
Choosing the right real estate agent can make or break a successful home sale – so take your time and do your homework!
Now that you know how to choose the right real estate agent, it’s time to get started on yours! Keep these tips in mind as you interview agents and find the perfect one for you.
