Why Pay A Commission?
Homeowners attempting to sell their home without the assistance of a real estate professional generally do so for one reason only: to avoid paying a commission fee.
Is it worth it? Only the homeowner can answer that, but experience has shown that many for-sale-by-owners find that it isn’t. Before making a costly mistake, consider the benefits, from A to Z, you receive from working with a trained real estate professional.
Advertising—agents normally have proven marketing strategies
Bargain—research shows that 77% of sellers felt their commission was well spent
Contract Writing—an agent can supply standard forms to speed the transaction
Details—an agent frees you from handling the many details of selling a home
Experience and Expertise—in marketing, financing, negotiations, and more
Financial Know-How—an agent is aware of the many options for financing a sale
Glossary—a real estate professional understands, and can explain, real estate lingo
Homework—agents are informed through research and experience in your market
Information—if you have a real estate question, an agent will know (or can get) the answer
Juggle Showings—an agent will schedule and handle all showings
Keeps Your Best Interests in Mind—it’s an agent’s job
Laws—a real estate professional will be up-to-date on real estate laws that affect you
Multiple Listing Service—the most effective means of bringing together buyers and sellers
Negotiation—an agent can handle all price and contract negotiations
Open Houses—a popular marketing technique organized by the agent
Prospects—an agent has a network of contacts that can produce potential buyers
Qualified Buyers—an agent can help avoid opening your home to curiosity seekers
Realtor ®—an agent is a member of the National Association of Realtors® and subscribes to a strict code of ethics
Suggested Price—an agent will do a market analysis to establish a fair price range
Time—one of the most valuable resources in an agent
Unbiased Opinion—most owners are too emotional about their home to be objective
VIP—that’s how you will be treated by your agent
Wisdom—a knowledgeable agent can offer the wisdom that comes with experience
X Marks the Spot—an agent is right there with you through the final signing of the papers
Yard Signs—an agent provides a professional sign, encouraging serious buyers
Zero-Hour Support—selling a home can be an emotional experience; an agent can help throughout the process
The Bottom Line
It’s a tall task to learn how to sell your house without a Realtor®—and selling your home will likely be one of the biggest transactions of your life. You can try to do it alone to save money, but hiring an agent has many advantages. Agents can get broader exposure for your property, help you negotiate a better deal, dedicate more time to your sale, and prevent your emotions from sabotaging it. An agent brings expertise, which few For Sale By Owner (FSBO) sellers have, to a complex transaction with many potential financial and legal pitfalls.
Final Thoughts
By working with a real estate agent, both buyers and sellers can make sure their best interests are being represented. Real estate agents have the knowledge and expertise to help their clients experience a smooth and stress-free transaction. By working with an agent, home buyers and home sellers could end up saving as well on money they otherwise leave on the table due to inexperience.
So remember me, Good News Bob, for all your real estate needs and Experience Good News!
article courtesy of Capital Title of Texas
