This is a photo of a sign that is on my way to town. This is actually one of a series of signs, all apparently trying to appeal to "fowl"customers.
This is why you need a realtor! A crude sign with misspellings on neon paper, held together with duct tape, does not inspire me to even look at your house, even if it is "cheep."
I know why many people prefer to try to sell their houses on their own. I know that realtors aren't cheap. We paid a 7 percent commission to sell our house three years ago. But to me, it was worth every penny.
Here are some reasons why you need a realtor:
Realtors know the market. They've seen what's available and they know what your house should be listed at.
Realtors know how to stage a home. They can give you great tips for cleaning up the clutter, minor fixes, and ways to add curb appeal that can help you get more money for your home.
Realtors are trained in the art of selling. They are experts at pointing out a home's best features and minimizing the not-so-great things about a house.
Realtors can advertise your home to a wide audience. They can use newspapers, real estate guides, the internet, and sometimes even television. A realtor can make sure your home is part of a multiple listing service (MLS) so that your home can be shown by any realtor in your area. All of these things can really help potential buyers find your home. Trying to market your home yourself can be both time-consuming and expensive.
Realtors have the time to invest in selling your home. This is what they do for a living, so it's in their best interest to sell your home. You, on the other hand, have a full-time job, kids, soccer practice, church group, etc., etc., and can barely keep the kids from smearing peanut butter on the couch, let alone showcase your house to a home buyer.
Realtors can help guide you through the closing. They know how the process works and can explain it in a way you'll understand.
Buying and selling a home is a very big financial decision and a realtor can be a valuable asset in the process. You may have to pay a commission, but in my opinion it is money well spent for the peace of mind a realtor can bring.
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
Why You Need a Realtor
2 comments:
Hi,
We are selling a condo and have a realtor to sell so far on our contact. We have also found a beautiful, completly renovated home with very modern furniture at an extra $15k to the price of the house.
Our concern is the seller IS a realtor and strongly prefers to have a buyer use them to avoid costs.
Please let me know if this is safe, the husband and wife team (realtor and decorator) seem to have integrity but we are new to this game and don't know what to look out for.
If we make an offer and decide to buy, should we go see a lawyer to proof read what is in the contract or should we just go with the realtor to be safe.
I understand that there are certain criteria to go through in a purchase: Our finance is set, we know there is an inspection to make sure the house structure is sound, we are able to get insurance at a moments notice from our insurance company and thats about all we know..
Is it dangerous to not use a realtor?
Help.
Kathey~
Kathey -
I guess I would proceed with extreme caution. I would be always assume that the seller has his best interests in mind (not yours), and so in this case you are at a distinct disadvantage. I would probably have someone look over the info (perhaps the realtor you are using to sell your condo would be willing to help?)
I personally would be uncomfortable without having someone on my side looking things over. But if you are the type of person who really understands the legalese and likes reading all the fine print, you could probably go it alone.
Best wishes!
~ Christina
P.S. Does the $15K include appliances... seems like a lot of money for furniture, esp. if you already have your own.
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