Why work with a full-service listing agent?
To answer this question, we not only need to look at the services a full-service agent provides, but at the overall value that they bring to each and every transaction. In my opinion, the term full-service real estate is used very loosely these days, so I will define what it means to me.
Educate, negotiate, and protect
Above all, a full-service listing agent should educate you about the market and your competition, negotiate strongly on your behalf, and most of all, protect you from potential pitfalls which invariably arise in real estate and which can pose a substantial risk to sellers.
Why shouldn't I use a discount agent? Wouldn't I save a lot of money?
If you're planning to use a discount service provider I would encourage you to thoroughly research what level of protection and what level of service they are offering. Is it possible that you could sell a home with a discount agent and come out money ahead? Sure it is, but in my opinion your risk factors increase tremendously. If your property isn't well marketed and you don't have a strong negotiator on your side you may leave a lot more money on the table than you would save by using a discount broker in the first place. I strongly believe that using a full-service agent will increase your chances for a faster sale and a higher sales price.
Your bottom line
Using a great full-service agent can make a substantial difference when it comes to your bottom line. Without a skilled listing agent on your side you can easily leave money on the table because your listing wasn't properly marketed or you missed out on opportunities to negotiate a better price.
What defines a full-service listing agent?
It really depends on who you're talking to. In my opinion, a full-service listing agent should (at a minimum)...
• be a true advocate who acts in your best interest (and only your interest) at all times. • listen carefully to what your exact goals are and act accordingly. • be proficient with the latest technology which will facilitate better communication and aid the listing process. • be aware of market trends and changes to local real estate law, and explain how they might affect you. • have full-time support staff (broker, assistant broker, office manager, transaction coordinator, etc.) behind them. • thoroughly research and understand the location in which your property is located. • be a strong communicator and keep you informed at all times. • dedicate enough time to each client to ensure that their goals are met. • offer constructive advice during all stages of the listing process. • present you with a thorough comparative market analysis and price opinion for your home. • consult you on how you can best prepare the interior and exterior of your home to increase the property's appeal. • have good recommendations for contractors who can address potential repairs and upgrades needed in your home. • have strong marketing skills and a comprehensive marketing plan which will ensure that your property won't be missed by potential buyers. • understand common issues with the type and age of home you're selling. |
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• be a strong negotiator.
• help you evaluate offers for your property and point out the strong points and risks associated with each offer.
• have experience with multiple offers and other competitive situations.
• manage and supervise the closing process (all the way from mutual acceptance to closing).
• be a resource for you even after the sale closes.
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Alex Eckardt Coldwell Banker Danforth 206.778.7844 |
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