TOP 6 REASONS TO WORK WITH A REALTOR WHEN SELLING YOUR HOME

Exposure for your property- Did you know 80% of new homebuyers begin their search online? Does your REALTOR have internet coverage as part of their marketing plan for your home? Does he or she have his or her own web site? Targeted Internet marketing is probably the most important reason for working with a REALTOR.

Print/newspaper advertising- Has your REALTOR provided you with a written marketing plan at the time of the listing showing exactly what he or she proposes to do to get your home sold? If not, choose another agent.

Qualifying buyers- Your REALTOR knows the right questions to ask when an inquiry comes in. This is important for many reasons including security, cutting down on meaningless showings and time wasted from showing “lookers” instead of “buyers”.

Availability- REALTORS are available to quickly respond to phone inquiries and showing appointments. Do you really think if you put a sign in your front yard with your home phone number on it and return a call the next day that anything will come of the inquiry? By then the potential buyer has contacted someone else or another REALTOR. Those buyers are gone and so is your window of opportunity.

Pricing- The list price is critical, especially in a challenging market where there are thousands of homes for sale. Your REALTOR can help you with this process through MLS information. Make sure the REALTOR you hire is a full member of the local Multiple Listing Service and plans to submit your property for this immediately after you sign the listing agreement.

Comparing commissions- Sometimes the cheapest way to go is not the most beneficial for the Seller. It is unrealistic to think that a “budget” type brokerage is going to get the job done in a Buyer’s market when the competition is so steep. You may want to consider paying a REALTOR a higher commission to get the job done properly and in a timely fashion. After all, selling your home is most important.

Any questions should be directed to:

Debra Pitell, CRS, GRI, e-Pro

Broker-REALTOR

Michael Saunders & Company

941-356-0437

dpestates@aol.com