The most important decision you will make in the sale of your home is the Realtor® you choose.  Here are some points to consider:

1.    Find someone you feel comfortable with:

• If you don’t feel you can ask questions or go to your Realtor, you chose the wrong Realtor.
• Your Realtor should show you research to back up any recommendations.  This includes information on recent sales, current listings and recent expired listings in your neighborhood.

2.    Choose a local Realtor:

• He or she will know your area better than an outsider.
• They will be seen as a source for people to relocate in your neighborhood.
• They will get better co-operation from other agents.
• It is likely that any amount you save by having a friend or relative from outside the area serve as your Realtor, will be lost in their lack of knowledge of the very specific local market.
• Ask for references from the Realtor.  He or she should be willing to give you numbers of previous clients.

3.    Ask your friends and acquaintances for recommendations.

• Make sure they have done business with the agent they are recommending.
• Make your final choice based on your needs.

4.    Ask the Realtor to show you what will be done to market your home:

• Consider the office and company available to him or her.  They are the agents support team.
• Be happy with the initiative and professionalism shown by the individual.
• Have them show you their marketing plan to get your home sold.

5.    Look for a Realtor who tells you what he or she knows from experience:

• Look for a truthful agent who is willing to tell you the facts about the market and pricing your home, not what they think you want to hear.
• Flattery may sometimes get the listing, but it doesn’t sell the home.
• Having an agent who will keep you updated on a regular basis is important.

6.    Complete a comparative market analysis:

• Your agent needs to compare your home’s value to that of your neighbors to give you a real feel for market value in your neighborhood.

7.    What else to expect from your Realtor:

• Help you stage your home and generate curb appeal to ensure you get the highest price.
• Assist with obtaining offers and help you in negotiating the best deal as smoothly as possible.
• Compile a comprehensive plan detailing all the efforts they will employ to sell your home, including internet and local media.
• Help you find your next home and answer all of your questions about the local market area, including schools, neighborhoods, the local economy, and more.
• Get the highest possible price for your home in the shortest possible time frame.