realtylinkonline

February 2002

Get smart: Hire a realtor!
How a REALTOR® can help you sell your home

If you're planning to sell your home, a REALTOR® will add value to the sale and make your move smooth and stress-free.

Selling a home is far more complicated than most people realize. It requires the expertise of a professional who understands the real estate industry and can follow through with an aggressive marketing plan to sell your home for its maximum value.

The Multiple Listing Service (MLS) is a computerized system that allows REALTORS® to share information on homes for sale. It provides sellers and their agents with maximum exposure. A realtor's access to MLS is a key tool that gives homeowners a competitive edge when selling their home.

Value-added services your REALTOR® can provide include: open houses, agent tours, targeted newspaper listings, direct mail pieces, lawn signs, advertising on websites, and other marketing activities.

A REALTOR® will also help you set the price of your home. This requires extensive knowledge, training and access to the latest market information. Price your home too high - you discourage potential buyers. Price it too low and you may lose some of your equity. Your REALTOR® will prepare a comparative market analysis (CMA) using advanced research tools to determine a competitive price for your home.

REALTORS® are experienced negotiators who are comfortable making follow-up calls with potential buyers. REALTORS® are also skilled in arranging financing and closing deals. They provide undivided loyalty in protecting their client's negotiating position at all times.

Think of your REALTOR® as your real estate consultant. They implement marketing initiatives, advise you on market conditions and prepare your legal documents when drawing up a legally binding contract. Simply put, a realtor's professional skills and networking connections can be indispensable in attracting serious, qualified buyers.