Today we are living in a complex world. Selling a home can also present situations that can become complex.

We cannot express enough the importance of having an experienced professional Realtor represent you.  Your home is your pride and joy, and most likely one of your biggest investments. The legalities that may arise is why we highly suggest using a realtor.  

My title reads, hand in hand, and this will come into play throughout the selling process and negotiating. 

Today’s buyers are quite savvy and like all of us, will try to get the best price. This is the time that you will need an experienced Realtor who knows how to represent you and get you top dollar for your home.   

Ask yourself these questions when selecting your Realtor.   

1. How many years have they been an active Realtor?  
2. Is this their full-time job?
3. Are they accessible when you need them, or is this a 9-to-5 job for them?
4. Do they provide their sellers with immediate feedback on the showings?  
5. Will they be able to tactfully suggest how to make your home more salable?
6. Will they offer to have professional pictures taken of your home.
7. Do you feel confident in the pricing of your home? How did they arrive at that price and were you shown comparable sales in your area?
8. Is the Realtor knowledgeable of your area?
9. Are they up to date on marketing? 
10. 10) I think this is the most important question to ask yourself. Do you feel that you are comfortable with the agent, and could you have a good rapport with them? 

What kind of agency will you be entering into when you decide to list your home? 

Are you agreeing to enter into an Exclusive Sellers Brokerage Engagement Agreement?  

What is an Exclusive Sellers Brokerage Engagement Agreement? The agent represents the seller as a client. The agent must put the Seller first and attempt to negotiate terms acceptable to their seller client. The agent owes you loyalty, and obedience to the law.   

Always remember that your Realtor will research your property doing a CMA (Comparative Market Analysis) to help you arrive at the right price. This is not an appraisal. Realtors are not appraisers. When they have concluded with their research through an analysis, they should be close to a competitive price.

You and your Realtor should work hand in hand. If you are happy with your Realtor give them a chance.  Extend them the courtesy of no less than a six month’s contract. They will not be able to do the job in less than that. If clients apply for a loan, this can take up to forth-five days.    

Thought for the Day:  Life is like a bicycle. You won’t fall off if you keep peddling — it is all about balance.   Challenge your limits, but always remember, life is not a race but a journey.