Some homeowners who are looking to save some money may consider selling their homes without an agent. While this is certainly possible, there are clear benefits of using a real estate agent that can actually save you time and money. Real estate agents bring a great deal of value to the table when you are selling your house.
Access and Information
A real estate agent has access to resources you don’t have. If you want your home seen by buyers, getting into the MLS (multiple listing service) is Critical, and in order to list on the MLS you must be a licensed realtor. Real estate agents work with many clients and cooperate with many Real Estate professionals that allow them to expand their reach to a vast number of potential buyers without having to wait for those buyers to stumble across your home online.
Real estate agents also have all the information on housing codes, zoning requirements, and all the professionals you’ll need to get the sale done most efficiently. They know who to call for every piece of the process, and this is information you don’t have if home sales isn’t your full time job.
Understanding the Market
Real Estate agents work with lots of buyers as well as sellers, so they have access to who is looking and what they are looking for. That way agents can advise you accordingly. Pricing your home strategically is a key component of what a real estate agent can do for you. If you price your home too high, your home will sit on the market because you aren’t attracting the right buyers. If you price your home too low, you won’t get the full value of your home. Agents have access to comparable home sales and neighborhood data that is much more thorough than any information you can pull off the internet.
Other Benefits of Using a Real Estate Agent
Choosing to sell your home without a real estate agent means that you are responsible for staging, photographing, and marketing. You’ll host the open houses. You’ll arrange showings for potential buyers, and if that buyer uses an agent, you’ll likely pay their commission. You’ll also deal with the negotiation, contracts, inspections, and legal work.
A real estate agent understands all this. One of the largest benefits of using a real estate agent is that you are able to rely on their expertise and experience. They understand how to stage, photograph, and market a home to get it in front of as many motivated buyers as possible. They’ll give up their evenings and weekends to arrange showings and open houses. Once you do get an offer, their knowledge of the entire process really comes paramount as they guide you through the entire transaction to a successful closing.
Even when factoring in the commission you’ll pay, using a real estate agent will not only save you time but many times will net you more money. Looking to list your home? We can help!