Thinking of Selling? You Want an Agent with These Skills

Thinking of Selling? You Want an Agent with These Skills

Selling your house is a significant decision. Your home is likely one of the biggest investments you've ever made and a place filled with countless memories. This combination brings a lot of emotions into play. You need someone who understands your perspective, knows what you're going through, and is an expert at guiding homeowners through the home-selling process.

That's where a good listing agent, also known as a seller's agent, comes in. Here are a few essential skills to look for in your agent.

The Ability To Turn Something Complex into Something Simple

Some agents might use complicated real estate terms to try and impress you. However, you shouldn't need to understand all the industry jargon to follow what they're saying. In fact, it's an agent's responsibility to simplify things so you don't feel overwhelmed or confused.

A great agent excels at breaking down the housing market in an easy-to-understand way. But they don't stop there—they also explain what the current market trends specifically mean for you. This ensures you’re always informed, making it easier to feel confident when making big decisions. As Business Insider explains:

“Maybe you have a better rapport with one of the agents you're considering, or you just feel like they're easier to approach. You're going to be working closely with this person, so it's important to choose an agent you're comfortable with.”

A Data-Based Approach on How To Price Your House

While it might be tempting to choose the agent who proposes the highest asking price for your home, this approach can backfire. The excitement of a high price tag can be misleading, as overpricing your house may result in it lingering on the market longer, deterring potential buyers.

Instead, work with an agent who will have an honest discussion about their pricing recommendation. A great agent won't suggest an inflated number just to secure your listing. They will support their suggested price with solid data, clearly explain their pricing strategy, and ensure you both agree on the approach. As NerdWallet explains:

“An agent who recommends the highest price isn't always the best choice. Choose an agent who backs up the recommendation with market knowledge.”

A Fair, but Objective Negotiator

The home-selling process can be emotional, especially if you've lived in your house for many years. These sentimental ties can make it challenging to remain objective during negotiations. This is where a trusted professional can make a significant difference.

Skilled negotiators, these professionals know how to stay calm under pressure. They will manage the back-and-forth negotiations, always prioritizing your best interests. Additionally, they can leverage their market expertise and insights from other transactions to provide the best possible advice. As Rocket Mortgage explains:

“Whether this is your first or third time selling a house, listing agents work to help make the home selling process smoother and less stressful. These real estate professionals know the ins and outs of the industry and can help you secure the best deal.”

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