How to Choose a Real Estate Listing Agent

An enthusiastic personality is a good trait for a real estate agent to have.

The time has come to sell your home, and want a real estate listing agent to handle the sale. There are lots of agents out there, and you want to make sure that you choose the best possible listing agent who will be honest with you, who will work hard to find you a buyer and who will look out for your best interests. All real estate agents are not created equal, so choosing a real estate listing agent that best meets your needs will require some work on your part.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

1. Start by searching Multiple Listing Service in your area. As you look at listings for houses on the market, watch for agents who have listings similar to yours. Pay attention to listings that stand out, and note what agents are listing them. If you feel they are doing a good job marketing other homes, you may want to put them on your list of agents to talk to.

2. Ask for recommendations from friends and family members who have used a listing agent. Get details about their experience, including any complaints or disappointments they may have had.

3. Start making calls once you have a short list, and set up interviews with each agent. Tell the agents that you'd like them to do a comparable market analysis on your home as well as a listing presentation.

4. Pay close attention to what type of marketing each agent plans to do for your home. Any agent can place an ad in a local newspaper, but look for agents who also employ innovative marketing techniques, such as open houses. Ask each agent to provide details about his recent sales, including a comparison of the listing price versus sale price. This tells you he encourages homeowners to list at the right price and that he's negotiating good deals for his clients.

5. Find out how much experience each agent has. Ask your agent about her certifications and education. Bankrate.com suggests you contact the state licensing board to determine if the person is licensed and whether anyone has brought forth disciplinary actions or complaints against her.

6. Avoid the temptation to hire the agent who suggests the highest listing price for your home. Be wary if the agent tells you he can sell your house for much more than all the others you talk to.

7. Pay attention when an agent points out things you don't want to hear about your home. Unless the agent is being rude, constructive criticism from someone in the business can make for a successful sale. You want an agent who is willing to be honest with you no matter what.

8. Choose an agent who knows your area and has an understanding of your specific location. Just because an agent sells lots of houses across town doesn't mean that he'll be successful selling your house.

9. Select an agent whom you feel comfortable working with. Pay attention to how quickly she responds to your calls and how attentive she seems to your concerns.

References

• Bankrate.com: 7 Tips for Picking a Real Estate Agent