Q:

How can a real estate agent assist me in selling my home?

A:

An agent will assist the seller with pricing, marketing and showing the property to qualified buyers only.  They will also help prepare documents, negotiate a contract and follow up with mortgage companies, banks, inspectors and the like.  The realtor will be involved as much as needed; if you do not use a realtor, these responsibilities are left entirely up to you.

Q:

If I decide to hire a realtor to help me sell my home, what are some important questions I should ask?

A:

Are you a full-time or part-time agent?  How much experience do you have?

Are you a member of the Board of Realtors?

What are your commission rates (not all rates are the same; ask what services you’ll receive for that fee)?

Will you be able to walk me through the selling process from beginning to end?

Will you be able to provide me with a Comparative Market Analysis in order to assist with pricing?

Will you provide me with the required federal and state documents and explain their use?

Will you list my home with MLS (Multiple Listing Service)?

How will you market my home (signage, internet exposure, fact sheets, etc.)?

Will you qualify all prospective buyers prior to showing my home?

Will you negotiate the contract on my behalf?

Will you contact me with feedback from showings & provide me with activity reports for my property?

Q:

Is it possible to sell my home without the assistance of a realtor?

A:

Of course, anything is possible – and if you decide to sell your home without hiring an agent, you will avoid paying commission fees.  However, you must keep in mind that selling a home for the best possible price requires a lot of work and expertise even in a “seller’s market”.  Also, sellers must be cautious when showing a home to strangers and must never go to contract unless financing has been arranged.  Finally, sellers must know their legal options and should hire an attorney.