You might be flipping a starter home or downsizing as empty nesters. Whatever the case may be, if you have recently made the decision to sell your home, you are probably overwhelmed by the amount of information there is to learn before your home is actually put on the market. That’s why your real estate agent is there to guide you along the way. What questions should you ask him or her before selling?
How many homes have you sold in my neighbourhood?
Whether your agent is a friend of a friend or a professional whose number you found on a roadside billboard, you shouldn’t be afraid to ask the hard questions. Plenty of licensed REALTORS® can demonstrate their ability to list homes. They might have a solid social media presence to back up their reputation. However, it’s all smoke and mirrors, and no help to you, if they have failed to sell homes in your highly specific region in the past year.
How long do you expect my home to remain on the market?
Real estate agents often pride themselves on their ability to sell homes in a month or so, and 30 days is roughly the amount of time most properties remain on the market. However, your home might be listed at a higher price than the current market reflects, or it could need some tender loving care. If your agent makes a promise that sounds almost too good to be true, it probably is. Take some time to consider whether their expectations sound realistic or not.
Is the asking price reasonable?
Some homebuyers mistakenly list their homes too high, in an effort to turn a better profit. This is understandable. However, REALTORS® are in tune with the constantly shifting market and are aware of trends that you might not be. If they are honest and upfront with you about your asking price, in comparison to current market trends and the original price you bought the home for, they are likely an honest and sincere professional.
How will you market my home?
Real estate agents rely on everything from brochures to Instagram to show off the aesthetic beauty of homes. When entrusting your home to a REALTOR®, you want to be certain they have a plan laid out on how to most effectively market your property.
