Thinking about Selling Your Home?

Before you sign a listing agreement, you should interview at least three agents. Choosing an agent that's just right for you is important as you'll be working very closely together over the coming weeks. Some questions to ask a prospective agent are:

• Are you a full-time Realtor?
• What professional designations do you have and how will they benefit me?
• What kind of experience do you have in selling a home like mine?
• Do you personally answer all calls from your clients?
• What systems do you have in place that will keep you in constant contact with me during the transaction?
• Are you fully automated with your own personal computer, fax machine, copier, pager, voice mail, e-mail, etc.?
• May I see your Internet website?
• Do you have a transaction coordinator or a personal assistant?
• Can you give me a list of three references that I may call?
• Why should I work with you instead of another agent?

A good agent will complete a written listing presentation for you. The presentation should include the following:

• Information about the agent and his or her firm
• Information about the housing market in your area - including the number of homes currently for sale and how many have recently sold
• A complete description of the features of your home
• Suggestions on what repairs to make and ways to improve curb appeal
• The agent's marketing plan
• A competitive pricing report on comparable homes to help you set a realistic asking price

Finally, you should feel comfortable with an agent, and your agent should take the time to listen to your needs and address your concerns.

If you are thinking about selling your home, I hope you will contact me to discuss my sales approach, which will sell your house quickly and for more money.