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STEP 2: FINDING A REALTOR Miamirealtyfinder.com is a good source to use when looking for a realtor. Try to find an experienced local real estate agent to assist you with the sale of your home. Even though over two million people in the United States are licensed to sell real estate, only one million belong to the National Association of Realtors (NARS). NARS is known for its strict code of ethics and have access to classes, seminars and opportunities in certifications.
How Do You Choose a Realtor? *Search on Miamirealtyfinder.com *Use local real estate magazines and newspapers *Recommendations from past sellers *Check the classifieds in your local newspaper
Here is a list of questions to ask when interviewing your realtor....
1. What type of representation do you provide (there are various types of representation like representing the buyer or seller or facilitating the transaction as a neutral party, etc.)?
2. What services do you offer? 3. How will you market my home? 5. What is your fee? 6. What happens if another realtor finds a purchaser? 7. How long do you want to list your home?
What to Expect When Working With a Realtor
Your realtor should keep you in the step by step process during the selling process. Written offers are not acceptable because they generally cannot be enforced. Your real estate agent, with assistance from a qualified attorney, are trained to provide the foundation for an actionable written offer.
The Seller Listing Agreement
A listing contract is a binding written contract that varies state to state and you may want to consult with an attorney before signing. Here are some basic terms to take into consideration:
MLS - A listing agreement allows your agent to list your home in a Multiple Listing Service unless you have serious privacy concerns. The listing helps your agent to market your home to a wide range of potential buyers, the public does not have access to this list.
Terms of Agreement - A longer term is beneficial to the agent because this gives him/her ample time to find a buyer for your home but if homes are selling quickly then you don’t want to commit yourself to this agent for more than a few months.
Lockbox - A lockbox is a small box attached to your front door containing a key to the property. Any agent who has access to this box can use a key or combination to show the property to a prospective buyer.
Commission - Most areas have a percentage that agents expect to receive although commission is negotiable. This percentage is usually 6% but some will accept 5% and some will ask for 7%. Keep in mind a higher percentage will give the agent an incentive to market and sell your home quicker.
Why Use a Realtor When Selling?
The most important factors of selling your home is the best price, speed, and little or no hassle. Coming to a conclusion of a reasonable asking price is generally the first step in selling your home. Your real estate agent should keep you up to date in terms and conditions of competing properties, what’s happening in the marketplace and financing.
*Marketing
Exposing your property to other agents and to the public is key to the salability of your home so marketing and advertising is very important. Your media choice depends on the property and specific market. However, The National Association of Realtors reveals that 82% of real estate sales are gained through previous clients, referrals, friends and family personal contacts, and agent contacts.
*Negotiating
The negotiation process is basically the same for both buyers and sellers. The agent can assist in writing a legally binding agreement that can result in a win-win transaction.
*Monitoring, Renegotiating, and Closing
Many questions will arise between the initial sales agreement and closing financing a glitch in the title or repairs. There is a lot of paperwork involved so this can be an overwhelming process for many sellers. Your realtor is a trained expert who can help to resolve these issues in an objective manner. |
