How Realtors Can Help a Seller Move Their Home

Last we discussed how a Buyer's Agent can help you as you hunt for your new home. Now, let's talk about what a Realtor can offer a seller.

Several people are both a buyer and seller at the same time, and yes, you can use the same Realtor for both. I think it is easier and less confusing to use the same realtor.

Realtors are instrumental in helping sellers price their home for sale based on what they know about the area, the current housing market and the house itself. Most importantly, a Realtor will get your home listed in the MLS which gains you more exposure and tells potential buyers important details about your home. Savvy Realtors know exactly what to list about your home to attract the most buyers. They are also experts in advertising and will get your home showcased on the circuit as quickly as possible.

Throughout the process, your Realtor will become your number one advocate working with you to sell your home. Once a buyer has been acquired, your Realtor will be by your side as you go through the negotiation process, all of the paperwork and in the end will rejoice alongside you when the house is sold.

What does a Realtor bring to the table? The answers to that question are many. Let's start with the evaluation of the property as that is likely one of the first things a Realtor will do for a seller. A Realtor knows what else is on the market in your area and knows whether the market is currently hot or cold. They have nuanced information about school systems, the community as a whole and are able to understand the value of the home objectively. He/she will be able to determine a fair market value for your home and price it to sell quickly.

A Realtor may also ask you to conduct a home inspection prior to placing your home on the market to save any surprises once the home is under contract. By inspecting the home before it goes on the market, the seller will have some idea what type of repairs and renovations need to be done to make the home an easy sell. Better to find out early that your furnace will need to be replaced then when you have a buyer on the doorstep waiting for final negotiations.

A Realtor is also aware of the minutiae that may turn a buyer away. Chances are, if you live with animals, you've gotten used to the smell in your home. Realtors know that removing the smell will go a long way towards making the home more marketable. A Realtor may also recommend updating paint and wallpaper for the modern day buyer. Keep in mind, you are not required to do anything your Realtor tells you to do, but listening to suggestions may be wise as the realtor is the expert.

Even with a Realtor on your team, use of the Internet is helpful. More and more homebuyers are searching the Web for properties. A good Realtor knows which Web sites are the most popular with homebuyers and what search engine optimization strategies will get your listing to the top of Google. A smart Realtor will tailor each listing to its potential audience, and know how to employ the Internet to your advantage. Make sure your property is listed on all of the major websites. It is estimated that 80% of homebuyers start their search on the internet. Professional pictures, virtual tours, and floor plans should all be a top priority.

Most importantly, once there is an offer on your property, a Realtor will help you negotiate the best deal.I myself work with a strong team of professionals, from real estate attorneys, mortgage brokers, home inspectors, contractors, and movers. The easier the transition, the less stressful the sale of your house will be.

In the end, the Realtor will lead you through the closing process and settle everything efficiently, so you can move onto your next home.