Finding a Listing Agent in Today’s Market
The real estate market in 2023 has been an “interesting” one, to say the least. It has been very unpredictable. Overall, it has remained a seller’s market since the inventory of homes has remained below that of the demand from buyers. The fluctuation of interest rates has added to the challenge of navigating the market for all parties involved. As of the writing of this editorial, the mortgage interest rate for a 30-year fixed is 8.451% and 7.528% for a 15-year fixed.
Because of this capricious market, it is more important than ever for sellers to be selective when hiring a listing agent—an agent who helps to market and sell your house while advocating for you every step of the way. The key to a successful sale is finding the perfect listing agent to work with you throughout the process—one who can customize a plan for your particular situation.
How do you know that you have found the perfect match in an agent? Below are key skills excellent listing agents should possess.
Pricing
While it may be tempting to choose the agent who suggests the highest asking price for your house, that strategy may end up costing you in the long run. It can be easy to get caught up in the excitement when you see a bigger number, but overpricing your property can have very negative consequences. It could mean that your property will sit on the market longer because the higher price is actually deterring buyers or not being marketed to certain segments of buyers. Instead, you want to pick an agent who is going to have an open and frank conversation with you about how they think you should price your house and why.
Negotiating
The home-selling process can be emotional, especially if you have been in your house for a long time. You may be connected to your home and have a lot of memories there. This can make the negotiation process harder, and this is where a trusted professional comes in.
A skilled listing agent will be calm under pressure and will be your point-person every step of the way. They will guide you, but also listen to you. Their experience in handling the back-and-forth gives you the peace of mind that you have someone on your side who has your best interests in mind.
Planning and Problem Solving
A listing agent’s main priority is to get your house sold for top dollar. A great agent never loses sight of this goal and will help you map out a plan of action to get this done. If they identify any necessary steps you need to take, they will be open and honest with you about it. Their commitment to your success means that they will work with you to address any potential roadblocks and find creative solutions to anything that pops up along the way. This problem solving skill comes into play both in preparing your home for market and in negotiating terms with buyers and their agents.
Tips for Finding the Right Agent
- Ask family, friends, and neighbors who they worked with and what their assessment is of that agent. Would they recommend that agent? Word of mouth referrals are a fantastic way to find an agent.
- Do your due diligence by researching agents online. Read reviews and testimonials on agents’ websites as well as those posted on forums such as Zillow.
- Don’t get caught up in fancy listing presentation materials. While a discussion should definitely include information about comparable properties (aka “comps”), having a long power point or fancy marketing materials is not essential. Connecting with a person and feeling that you can trust that person to help you with a stressful and expensive business deal is vital.
Debbie Austin is a realtor associate with Keller Williams, Roseville and has been helping clients buy and sell property in the area for 19 years. If you have a specific real estate question you wish to see addressed, contact Debbie at (916) 223-8144 or visit debbieaustinrealty.com.
