Services of a Realtor

When it's time to put your house or condo on the market, many people wonder if they are better off selling as a "by owner" or using the services of a realtor.  The reason for the quandary is typically a financial one.  It is a common myth that the seller will net greater proceeds from the sale of their own home or condo if they sell it themselves.  In reality, buyers are typically looking for the "by owner" to drop the price of the realtors commissions as much as 6=10% below the price of comparable homes listed by real estate companies.  Buyers can find a more selection of homes and a more trusted sale if they use the services of a realtor.

What are some of the benefits of using a Realtor?

• Your Realtor can help you understand the home selling process from putting your home on the market through closing.
• Advises you as to the right price for the home based on their knowledge of what comparable homes sold for in the last 6 months to 1 year.
• Assists you in determining the necessary home improvements required to get you property in the best selling condition possible and at the lowest possible cost to you.
• Develops your personalized marketing plan and places your home in the Multiple Listing Service to reach as many qualified buyers as possible.
• Handles the showing of your property so your schedule is not tied up keeping appointments with prospective purchasers.
• Negotiates the offer to purchase objectively to obtain the highest possible price for your home.
• Leads you through the home inspection phase and negotiates on your behalf
• Tracks the various stages of the sale from contract to closing.
• Coordinates with all parties involved to provide all the information needed to bring the sale to a successful close.

When using the services of a realtor these are only a few of the things they do for you, the seller.  Selling your home is a big deal and most people don't sell more than two homes in their lifetime so it is not something in which they develop an expertise.  There are ever changing laws, ethical considerations and practical considerations that most home sellers do not want to learn through trial and error.  Your home is most likely your most valuable financial asset and the last thing you want to do is jeopardize that, it's just not worth the risk.