In an effort to save money, many people think selling their home on their own is the way to go. It’s proven that selling your home on your own can cost you time and money in the long-run.
Why have a Realtor® represent you? Here are 7 good reasons:
#1. You can sell your home faster with a Realtor®.
Listing your home with an agent is likely to result in a faster sale, since Realtors® are better able to market your property. Real estate agents have access to Multiple Listing Service (MLS) databases, which are widely searched by people looking for homes. Your agent also has a larger pool of contacts that many know of someone who is looking for a home. Real estate agents also know the market inside and out, and can therefore ensure your home is priced appropriately.
#2. Working with a Realtor® allows you to sell for more money.
Hiring a Realtor® will help you make more money on the transaction. The National Association of Realtors® reports that nationally, the average price of a For Sale by Owner home was $174,900 in 2014, as opposed to $215,000 for homes listed by an agent. This means you could actually realize a profit even after paying the real estate commission.
#3. Realtors® provide unbiased opinions.
You may have your own opinion as to what makes your home attractive. Realtors® on the other hand show properties every day, and are in a good position to tell you what works and what doesn’t. He or she can likely recommend simple touches that will go a long way toward ensuring your home is presented in the best light possible.
#4. A Realtor® saves you time.
Many people grossly underestimate the amount of time they’ll spend showing their property and answering questions about it. You’ll also need to place online ads, respond to emails and host your own open houses. Once you do secure a buyer, you must draw up a contract and complete other legal documents. All of these things can consume a great deal of time. Bottom line is this – you will need to become a full time agent while your home is on the market.
#5. Realtors® don’t waste time with tire kicking “buyers” ensuring greater safety to a seller.
Real estate agents will not show your home to just anyone. Most Realtors® will recommend buyers become pre-qualified for a mortgage first. This ensures they only show people homes that are in their price range and for which the potential buyer has been approved while also providing a greater level of personal safety and privacy for a seller.
#6. Realtors® can help you negotiate from a position of strength.
Price isn’t the only thing that’s negotiable in a real estate contract. Other things such as repairs, taxes, and even whether or not certain furniture is included may all be negotiated as well. If you’re not skilled at negotiating, you may find yourself agreeing to unfavorable terms, simply because the price is right. Allowing your Realtor® to negotiate for you can ensure you are comfortable with all the terms of your sale, and not just the price.
#7. Realtors® guide you through the entire selling process.
Your work isn’t done once you receive an offer. Next, you must undergo appraisals, inspections and title searches before you can close on your property. If you’ve never sold property before, these additional things could leave you frustrated. When listing your property, you can count on your agent to keep you informed as to what happens next.
Overall, your sale is more likely to end up on a positive note when you enlist the help of a Realtor® from the beginning.
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