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.
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