My New Blog

Choosing the right agent can save you a lot of headaches and may save you a lot of money.  It seems like everyone's neighbor is getting a license.  So, how do you insure that your agent is the right agent.  First, interview the agent and find out his education, background, experience and credentials.  Are they fresh out of high school or college.  Has this agent gone on to higher education in real estate.  Do they have a G.R.I.,  C.R.S., A.B.R., C.R.B. ETC.  Do they work part time and is real estate part time.  Find out how many homes they have sold in the past _____years!  What is the price range they specialize in?  Make sure that the agent you choose is educated in your market and price range.  Then ask them how they will market your home.  Each home has a different "target market".   Will they concentrate on that market of buyers?  Will they set up their web site to draw in those buyers with key words?

There are so many agents out there. What you don't know about selling and what they don't know about selling, can cost you greatly.  Don't market your home with an agent because they will start at a higher price.  A home on todays market that is overpriced can cost you extra in taxes, utilities, monthly payments, maintenance and other costs.  Most importantly you must make plans to adjust the price if the home is not drawing any traffic to your site, the mls site or through your home. I have seen too many sellers try and hold out for higher prices.  They wait months before making a price change and then the home is overexposed to the market and it sells for much less. 

Take the wise road to success. Interview and ask a lot of questions.  Have  the agent explain what marketing tools work and what do not work.  Best wishes in marketing your home.   Doug Cooke - 30 yrs in Business - marketing degree.