Ann's Choice	UPDATED: Monday, October 30, 2006
Write a Comment on Story Print Email Story Add to Favorites

How to Find a Really Good Realtor

Posted on Wednesday, November 01, 2006

By Tom Mackie
THE ERICKSON TRIBUNE

There are a lot of emotions that come with selling your house. Chances are it’s a place you’ve lived for the past 10, 20, 30 or more years. So you want to be sure you’re going to get the full value of your house.

Although some people prefer to sell their houses themselves, if you’ve never done it before it makes sense to hire a professional realtor.

As in any business, there are good realtors and not-so-good. Here’s a proven method for selecting a good one. If you are selling your house, contact a few agents and ask them to make presentations to you. When you meet with them ask to see their marketing materials, things like ads, brochures, listings, etc. Evaluate which one seems the most professional to you. After all, if their materials don’t look professional enough for you, how are they going to professionally market your house?

“Realtors know there’s a lot of competition out there,” says Marie Dmoch, an Ann’s Choice retirement counselor. “If you take your time and follow these steps you’re bound to have a few really great realtors in which to choose.”

Also, consider the agent who seems to be a seasoned pro, but also cares about you more than making the sale. Which one asks specific questions? If you think a realtor is too glib, then so will the person buying your house. Go with the one you feel more comfortable with and, more importantly, the one you think will get you the best price for your house.

Say ‘Yes’ to an Experienced Realtor, Not to a ‘Yes’ Man

Ann's Choice

More Ann's Choice

Staying active through the winter

‘Not just Bob Hope anymore’

Home for the holidays

Selling or donating extra items

Read or Add a Comment?

A call to end Erie Pa.'s relationship with "sister city" Zibo, China, and all Chinese imports.

No URL for Riderwood Blog

Laughter Yoga

Happy hour hot spots?

Model yacht clubs

Your thoughts on Reflexology

Tools

Write a Comment on Story

Email Story

Add to Favorites

Make sure you choose an experienced realtor who sells full-time. Some realtors work part-time so it’s important to make sure your realtor is committed to his or her profession.

Be sure to ask each realtor what houses are going for in your area and what they honestly think your house is worth. Don’t go with a “yes” man who suggests the higher price just to get you to go with them. Whatever price they quote you, ask them to justify it. “Why do you think I should sell it at this price?”

This prevents them from low-balling just to get you to sell your house more quickly. The selling price should be attractive to buyers and still get you top dollar in the current market. The right realtor will earn your trust by being honest with you about how much your house is worth.

“We had a good realtor who really worked with us,” says Dee Shiflet, who recently moved to Ann’s Choice with her husband, Bob. “Our house had this great country look to it, but he told us to ‘stage’ it, which means to make all the colors neutral, like beige. We also removed some furniture to give it a cleaner, simpler look and our home sold right away.”

Dee says that on top of having a good realtor, the staff at Ann’s Choice was extremely helpful. “They gave us plenty of helpful tips as well, and supported us every step of the way.

Consider a Realtor With Team Spirit

Many agents today work with specific law firms, title companies, home inspectors, landscapers, house cleaners, etc.

Often this is the way to go because you can usually get things done faster with an agent who has a "team” working with them. Of course, you are not obligated to work with an agent’s team. Again, think about the comfort level you have with your realtor.

Finally, don’t be afraid to ask for references and follow through with due-diligence and call these references. Ask the references what they liked or disliked about the realtor. Or be even more direct: Ask them if they got what they wanted for their home?

Another great question is, If you had to sell your house again, would you choose the same realtor? I think asking a reference if they would choose the same realtor again is the ultimate way of finding out how good someone will be at selling your house,” says Marie. “Repeat happy customers are the lifeblood of a great realtor.”

The staff at Ann’s Choice has even more resources for you when it comes to selling your house. Call them now to get details at 215-672-2900 or toll-free 1-800-576-1453.