But how do you know you've found the perfect match in an agent? Here are three key skills you'll want your listing agent to have.
They Price Your House Based on the Latest Data
While it may be tempting to pick the agent who suggests the highest asking price for your house, that strategy may cost you. It's easy to get caught up in the excitement when you see a bigger number, but overpricing your house can have consequences. It could mean it'll sit on the market longer because the higher price is actually deterring buyers.
Instead, you want to pick an agent who's going to have an open conversation about how they think you should price your house and why. A great agent will base their pricing strategy on solid data. They won't throw out a number just to win your listing. Instead, they'll show you the facts, explain their pricing strategy, and make sure you're on the same page.
An agent who recommends the highest price isn't always the best choice. Choose an agent who backs up the recommendation with market knowledge.
— NerdWalletWhat to Look For in Pricing Discussions
- Comparable sales analysis: They show you recent sales of similar homes in your area
- Market conditions: They explain current buyer demand and inventory levels
- Honest assessment: They're willing to have difficult conversations about pricing
- Strategy explanation: They walk you through the reasoning behind their recommendation
They're a Great Negotiator
The home-selling process can be emotional, especially if you've been in your house for a long time. You're connected to it and have a lot of memories there. This can make the negotiation process harder. That's where a trusted professional comes in.
A skilled listing agent will be calm under pressure and will be your point-person in all of those conversations. Their experience in handling the back-and-forth gives you peace of mind that you've got someone on your side who's got your best interests in mind throughout this journey.
They're a Skilled Problem Solver
At the heart of it all, a listing agent's main priority is to get your house sold. A great agent never loses sight of that goal and will help you prioritize your needs above all else. If they identify any necessary steps you need to take, they'll be open with you about it. Their commitment to your success means they'll work with you to address any potential roadblocks and find creative solutions to anything that pops up along the way.
Just as important as the knowledge and experience agents bring is their ability to guide you smoothly through the process. Above all, go with an agent you trust and will feel comfortable with.
— BankRateSigns of a Great Problem Solver
- Proactive communication: They address potential issues before they become problems
- Creative solutions: They think outside the box when challenges arise
- Transparent approach: They're honest about what needs to happen for success
- Goal-oriented mindset: They never lose sight of getting your home sold
The Bottom Line
Whether you're a first-time seller or you've been through selling a house before, a great listing agent is the key to success. Connect with a real estate professional so you have a skilled local expert by your side to guide you through every step of the process.
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