When you make the choice to sell your home, you want a realtor that cares just as much about protecting your investment as you do. Any Realtor can list your home for sale, but not all realtors are the same. Take your time and do your research when choosing a realtor to work with, as it could have a huge effect on your home sale’s bottom line. Ask these six questions at a bare minimum when interviewing potential realtors to sell your home. If you find a realtor that provides this information without you even asking, move them to the top of your list!
What Are Your Credentials and Stats?
One of the first things you’ll want to know about any realtor is their credentials. Ask about their license status, and then verify their answer on Florida’s Licensing Portal. Also ask about any certifications or affiliations with local groups or organizations, such as the Chamber of Commerce. Membership in the National Association of Realtors® is a big plus. A Realtor is held to a higher code of standards and ethics than someone who is only a real estate agent.
Also ask the agent about their sales record, especially recent sales. You may even want to focus on sales over just the past year to get an idea of how the agent works in the current market. Dig deeper with questions about the locations and average sale price of properties they’ve sold during that time.
How Often and How Will I Receive Updates?
Inquire about which communication methods, such as email, phone, text, social media, or others, the realtor prefers and how long their average response time would be. If you’re the type of person that expects daily updates or hates texting, you’ll want to choose a realtor that’s on the same page.
How Do You Determine the Listing Price?
Lots of factors go into a home’s listing price, and getting it right the first time can be the difference between a quick, lucrative sale or a budget-busting bomb. A skilled realtor will know all of the slight nuances that attract buyers in your neighborhood, pinpointing the perfect price to maximize your profit.
What Do I Need to Do in My Home Before Listing?
Some homes need just minor touch-ups before being listed, while others require major repairs. A qualified Realtor will be able to tell you what needs to be done to your home to make it sellable, but that’s not all. The most astute realtors will also know all the cosmetic secrets to make your home stand out to buyers amid a sea of options. Little improvements such as a fresh coat of paint, stylish landscaping, or upgraded lighting fixtures can make the difference between a buyer making an offer or passing your home by.
How Much Will I Pay for Your Services When My Home Sells?
There is no shortage of costs when making a real estate transaction, but trustworthy Realtors will be very upfront about their fees and any other expenses that may come along. Ask for the Realtor’s pricing structure. These costs will also be in the listing agreement you sign with the Realtor you choose. Pricing can vary greatly as different realtors offer different levels of service.
What Is Your Marketing Plan?
You’ll want a Realtor that does more than just list your home on MLS. Ask about what marketing and advertising channels the prospective realtor uses often. It is common for the modern Realtor to advertise on traditional and digital platforms, with social media becoming a driving force for home advertisements. Since the Realtor’s ads may be a potential buyer’s first impression of your home, check out the Realtor’s actual online listings to make sure they are of the quality you desire.
Use these questions as a jumping-off point for finding a qualified realtor and your home selling journey will be much less stressful. For the best realtors in Tampa Bay, the choice is clear: choose 360 Realty. Our experienced agents are ready and willing to help you sell your home for top dollar with minimal time and effort on your part. Call us at (813) 938-6593 or Contact Us and find the ideal agent for your home sale today!
