Despite the economic downturn, there are still real estate agents who are doing very well for themselves and for the sellers they represent. In today's highly competitive "buyer's market", the first concern of sellers should be finding an agent who can sell their home in a reasonable timeframe for the best price. Here are some techniques that some of the best agents in the business are employing this year.
Today's real estate brokers need a solid web presence in order to effectively compete. Your agent's firm should have a professional, easy to use web site complete with a MLS listing search. Many agents feature useful information about the local market, as well as tips for buying and selling homes. Social media is also a tool many savvy brokers employ, using it to build networks and notify potential buyers as well as other real estate agents about homes recently listed for sale. Covering these basics will ensure that your agent has worked to establish a good presence on the Web.
It's also important to know that the MLS isn't the only way your home can be listed on the Web. You'll want to make sure that whoever you choose also will list your home on other real estate web sites for maximum exposure. While Craigslist.org remains a perennial favorite, having a good listing on other appropriate sites can help to ensure that your listing is viewed by as many potential buyers as possible. Your agent should be familiar with the most popular real estate Web sites for your area, and should submit your listing to each one that is appropriate.
Many of the best real estate agents have chosen to specialize in certain areas of the market in their area. Finding a broker that sells properties similar to yours is a good idea, particularly if your home falls into a specific category, like small ranches, historical homes, or luxury homes.
When shopping around for an agent, it is a good idea for sellers to examine various agents' listings and determine their quality. Are they accurate and detailed, with full lists of amenities? Do they offer several good pictures, and maybe even interactive video tours or 360 degree photos? Your agent should have all the tools available to show your home to its best advantage. The best listings will give potential buyers a good idea of what your house is like, which will mean that it will attract more buyers looking for a home like yours. Some agents may even utilize professional photographers for home listings.
Good agents also should advise you on "staging" your home for sale and showing to potential buyers before photographs are ever taken. They will be able to point out problems that savvy potential buyers will spot, so that you can fix them before a buyer ever lays eyes on them.
The best agents will also make certain that all prospective buyers taken to your house are pre-qualified before you are disturbed. Most of us don't appreciate strangers wandering about in our homes uninvited. Making sure that potential buyers are pre-qualified for loans will mean only people who can actually buy your house will be taking up your time.
Shopping around for an agent that understands that you have just lost a lot of your equity to the economy is important. In this economy, every dollar counts, so you might also inquire regarding commission rates. Some may be willing to work with you to help you keep more of your remaining equity. It certainly can't hurt to ask!
If you are selling a White Rock or South Surrey home, call on Red Dot Real Estate, a real estate broker with $1 billion in sales since 1981. Offers award-winning strategic marketing with professional digital photography, virtual 360 tours and floor plan renderings plus fast listings on several different web sites. Save up to 50% on MLS listing fees! Powered by SEO 2.0 Services
