Marjorie T. Brown

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7 Things You Need to Know Before Hiring an Agent

Not all real estate agents are the same. If you decide to seek the help of an agent when selling or buying your home, you need some good information before you make any moves. Picking an agent is one of those critical issues that can cost or save you thousands of dollars. There are very specific questions you should be asking to ensure that you get the best representation for your needs. Some agents may prefer that you don’t ask these questions, because the knowledge you’ll gain from their honest answers will give you a very good idea about what outcome you can expect from using this agent.

What makes you different? Why should I list my home with you?

What unique marketing plans and programs does this agent have in place to make sure that your home stands out favorably versus other competing homes? What things does this agent offer you that others don’t to help you sell your home in the least amount of time with the least amount of hassle and for the most amount of money?

What is your company’s track record and reputation in the marketplace?

I’m sure you will agree that success in real estate is selling homes. If one agent is selling a lot of homes where another is selling only a handful, ask yourself why this might be? What things are these two agents doing differently?

What are your marketing plans for my home?

How much money does this agent spend in advertising the homes s/he lists versus the other agents you are interviewing? What does s/he know about the effectiveness of one medium over the other?

What has your company sold in my area?

Agents should bring you a complete listing of both their own, and other comparable sales in your area.

On average, when your listings sell, how close is the selling price to the asking price?

Their performance on this measurement will help you predict how high a price you will get for the sale of your home.

On average, how long does it take for your listings to sell?

Their performance on this measurement will help you predict how long your home will be on the market before it sells.

How many Buyers are you currently working with?

The more buyers your agent is working with, the better your chances are of selling your home quickly. Ask them to describe the system they have for attracting buyers.