They advertise the property in print and online, host showings, present you with offers, and help you negotiate and close the deal. Some homeowners decide to sell without an agent. However, according to statistics from the National Association of REALTORS®, listing agents often sell homes for 40% more than homeowners themselves. Agents do get paid a fee at closing, which is usually 5%-6% of the final sale price; however, commissions are negotiable, there are no set standards, and it’s up to the seller and the broker as to what compensation level they both agree on. Selling a home is NOT a “do it yourself” and “learn as you go” type of venture. Selling your home, the biggest investment of your life, is a big deal.

An experienced listing agent can ease the burden of work and increase exposure for your home’s listing. Also, they have access to the Multiple Listing Service, which can help attract buyers and their agents. Their marketing skills and contacts in the real estate industry can also attract buyers who might not otherwise have noticed your home. Selecting the right agent for your home can be difficult with so many agents to choose from and so many agents eager to get your listing.

Short sale.

What Qualities Should a Listing Agent Possess? Choosing the right agent for you and your home is a difficult decision. Begin by interviewing our experienced brokers at Illinois Star, Ltd. REALTORS®. Look for an agent that specializes in properties like yours. We will look for similar-sized and valued residences in nearby neighborhoods. If you are selling a condo, seek an agent who specializes in condos. If you’re selling your home in a rural area, find an agent who is familiar with rural areas. Most of that data is on the brokerage’s website. If the office does not have a website with good information, they probably do not have the marketing or IT skills to maximize the potential of your listing.

Expecting too much from your brokerage is a common mistake. We’ve all seen bus advertising and billboards for high-volume local agents. Not everyone wants celebrity listing agents. Those agents may not provide you with the personal attention you want. Instead, you may be interacting with the agent’s associates and assistants. A high-volume agent may be suitable if your property is located in a high-end area. They frequently know purchasers who can afford more expensive residences.

When selling a home, don’t be hesitant to check with independent or small firm agents, especially if they specialize in your property type. There are terrible agents at huge brokerages and brilliant agents working for family-owned independent brokerages. Focus on their experience and credentials, not their agency’s size.

For Sale by Owner.

Choosing the Right Agent. Checking out the office website can yield a promising candidate. Before meeting with the agent, request a CMA and investigate the local real estate market. www.IllinoisStarRealtors.com will help you estimate your home’s value. During the meeting, the agent should provide a written home value estimation that is based on recent comparable transactions. Comparable properties should consist of recent sales in the area that are similar in size, location, age, and amenities. Your Illinois Star REALTOR® is the best source of information.

The best home value estimate. 

You should not be looking for the agent who offers you the highest listing price. Agents frequently try to secure a listing by promising an inflated price well over the market value in order to entice you to sign up with them. You should want to see a written market evaluation that appears reasonable. When selling your home, you don’t want an agent to show you homes that are vastly different in size and location from your own. They either don’t understand the market or are attempting to manipulate their valuation to obtain better terms in their listing agreement. Agents should also show you recent sales activity lists. Consider their quantity and quality. Listings that sell quickly and at or above the asking price are markers of success. Also, inquire about the agent’s marketing strategy. When selling your home, REALTORS® should be willing to advertise online and spend money on marketing.

Lastly, one must consider their personality. Keep in mind that you’ll be working closely with this person on one of the most significant decisions of your life. Avoid picking someone you can’t bear to spend time with.