Choosing a Real Estate agent to help you sell your home involves a bit more than just calling a Realtor and signing a contract with them. There are many factors and aspects about selling a home, the amount of time on the job is only one and should not necessarily be the deciding factor.
The listing agent, (the sellers agent) is the one placing your property information on the MLS which is the nation wide database where all listings listed with a licensed Realtor will be shown. Some listing agents will do that, and nothing more, waiting for an agent to call with a prospective buyer.
How many properties has you agent sold? Was he/she the sellers agent, or the buyers agent? How many properties were sold at, or near, the asking price when agent acted as sellers agent? That is an important question. Some agents will prompt you to reduce the price substantially when negotiating with the buyer. That can mean you lose a lot of money, but it is a quick sale and fast commissions for the agent.
Not everyone is good at negotiating or asking for things.In a transaction involving a large sum of money such as your house, would you not have an agent that have the skill and know how to negotiate the best deal for you?
Besides placing your listing on the MLS, what other marketing plans does this agent have? Ads? Will they host open houses? Will those open houses be advertised somewhere to draw the largest amount of house-shoppers?
The availability of your agent is yet another important consideration. Will he/she be available during evenings and weekends? How long before they respond to a call from you or a potential buyer? When negotiations are underway and there are time limits in the contract, having an unresponsive agent can sink your deal.
The personality of your agent is another important factor. A pessimistic, slow, unmotivated agent could kill your deal. Look for someone who is enthusiastic, willing to put in some effort, someone with a positive sunny disposition.
Take some care and thought before selecting someone that you will be forced to work with for many months. Take your time, interview several agents. Ask around for referrals. Make sure you get the best agent for you and your deal.
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