It’s true that most of us sell a home only a handful of times during our lives. So, with limited real estate experience, how are we to make sure that we’ll maximize the profits from the sale of our house?
Unfortunately, many home sellers make the financial mistake of thinking that one Realtor is the same as another. They list with a friend or relative, or with the first agent they meet. But it’s just good business sense to do a little research when it comes to deciding which Realtor is right for you.
The following list of questions should prove helpful in making a good choice:

1. Could you send me some information about yourself? - You can often get a good idea of which agents are the most professional by looking at their website, and their marketing proposal. If their own materials aren’t professional, how well are they going to market your home? Then, pay attention to how long each agent takes to respond to your request as well as how quickly they follow up. If they don’t respond efficiently to your listing requests, you can imagine how they’ll handle potential home buyers.

2. How long have you been in business and what professional organizations do you belong to? – It’s nice to know that your Realtor has had a number of successful closings behind them, so don’t hesitate to enquire about their real estate sales background. Also, take into account what professional organizations they belong to. The minimum should be a licensed professional who’s a member of the local real estate board and multiple listing service as well as the state and National Association of Realtors. Local charity affiliation, community groups and associations are also pluses in terms of networking and commitment.

3. Do you have a support staff or an assistant? - By employing someone to handle the details of their business the agent can spend more time servicing your needs. However, make sure you know how much time an agent will spend and how much time their assistant will spend on the sale of your home. It may be fine if the assistant does most of the legwork as long as the agent is there at the most critical times of the transaction period.

4. How often will you hold open houses? Will they be public or by appointment only? - Simply putting a sign on your lawn and holding open houses on a few Sundays will not sell your home; and holding open houses too frequently make the property a target for low ball bidders. Look for an agent who has a specific plan for each open house. The plan should be just one facet of a complete marketing plan.
   
5. What listing price do you recommend and what is that price based on? - Pricing is the most critical step to selling your home. Take great care in choosing an agent with the knowledge to price your home effectively. Keep in mind the selling price should attract prospective buyers to your home, get you top dollar in the current market and reflect the condition of your home. Be realistic and avoid ‘yes agents’, who will say ‘yes’ to any request or price in order to get your listing, knowing that your home will most likely languish on the market. Such agents can cost you time and money.

6. What does the listing agreement entail, what are the beginning and expiration dates, and what are the fee amounts I will be paying? - Have your agent go over every detail in the listing agreement with you until you understand it completely. Make sure the beginning and ending dates are on the agreement; a good standard for length is six months. Know exactly what fees you will be paying your agent and remember that less is not always better. If the agent stands to make very little commission you can bet it will be reflected in the amount of time and effort that is spent marketing your home. If the agent reduces their commission to get the listing it may mean they intend to spend very little money promoting the property.

7. What types of things separate you from your competition? - How effectively will you advertise? Agents who are innovative and offer new methods of attracting home buyers will measurably outperform agents who rely on methods of the past. Marketing effectively in the 21st century and beyond requires progressive strategies that add value and service for both buyers and sellers!