There are many reasons why a REALTOR® can be a great asset when selling your home. But don’t simply go with the first REALTOR® who suggests the highest asking price. There’s a REALTOR® out there that’s best for you.
The REALTOR® who helped you buy your current house is a good start
Sticking with a REALTOR® you know just makes sense. If they did a good job helping you buy your home, they’re probably the best candidate for helping you sell it.
- Jot down the names and numbers of REALTORS® on “For Sale” signs.
- Ask your local friends or nearby family to recommend a REALTOR®.
- Visit one of the local real estate offices who know your area.
Interviewing candidates
Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Finding the right REALTOR® is about a partnership – so screen a few before deciding. Make sure you feel comfortable with them and that they show a genuine interest in helping you. Here’s a list of questions you can ask.
Home owners should interview a few potential REALTORS® before deciding on one to sell their home. Here are some smart questions to ask:
| 1. How long have you been in the business? A freshly-licensed REALTOR® can do a wonderful job and will have up-to-date training; those in the business longer bring more practical experience to the table. |
| 2. What is your average list-to-sales-price ratio? A listing REALTOR® should hold a track record for negotiating sales prices that are very close to list prices. |
| 3. How will your marketing plan meet my needs? Specifically, how will you sell my home? Where and how often do you advertise? Will you show me a sample flier? How do you market online? |
| 4. Will you provide references? Ask if any of the references are related to the REALTOR®. Ask if you can call their references with additional questions. |
| 5. What separates you from your competition? Key phrases to listen for: assertive, available by phone or e-mail, analytical, able to maintain a good sense of humour under trying circumstances. |
| 6. May I review documents that I will be asked to sign? A good REALTOR® makes forms available to you before you are required to sign them. Ask to see agency disclosure, listing agreement, seller disclosure. |
| 7. How will you help me find other professionals? Ask for a written list of referring vendors. Get an explanation if you see the term “affiliated”. It could mean the REALTOR® is getting compensation from vendors. |
| 8. How much do you charge? You don’t have to ask if the fee or commission is negotiable, since all real estate fees are negotiated. |
| 9. What if I’m unhappy with the service? If you sign a listing agreement with the REALTOR® and later find that you are unhappy with the arrangement, will the REALTOR® let you cancel the agreement? |
| 10. What haven’t I asked you that I need to know? Pay close attention to how the REALTOR® answers this question, because there is always something you need to know – always. |