Why Use a Real Estate Agent?

By Cecilia Sherrard
YouShouldOwn.com

There are dozens of things to consider and keep an eye out for while selling your home.  You should focus on your next move and your home during this time.  A professional Real Estate Agent should really handle everything else behind the scenes.  Here’s what a Real Estate Agent can provide:

  • Correct pricing and market evaluation of your home. 
  • Marketing and exposure to other Agents. 
  • Marketing to potential Buyers not just locally, but from around the world. 
  • Negotiating on your behalf, offer advice, and handle all the necessary paperwork and coordinating until the home sells. 

A good agent will help you get your home in top selling condition.  From the curb to the back yard, your agent can give you tips and pointers.  Realtors walk side by side with buyers daily and know what they’re looking for.  This could also save you money by doing smaller repairs as opposed to large upgrades that may not bring as much return.  (see Home Improvements)


                     Funny video about how not to be a real estate agent:


Comparative Market Analysis (CMA)

Your JC Jones CENTURY 21 listing agent can generate a report that compares your home to the other homes currently being sold in your area.  It may also show other homes that have sold recently, or expired from the market before selling.  This data will help you and your agent decide together on the most realistic asking (or list) price for your home.

A good agent also knows the value of spreading the word about your home to other agents.  A JC Jones CENTURY 21 agent will widen your audience of potential buyers using these techniques.

It may seem ceremonial, but closing the deal is often the hardest part of a real estate transaction.  Your agent will start working for you even before the final sale.real estate agent

  • Qualification/Pre-Screening.


    Prospective buyers visiting your home should be financially able to purchase it.  Your listing agent can work with the buyer's agent to assure that the people who see your home can afford what you're asking.  You may wish to require pre-qualification (or more complete pre-approval) by a qualified lender.

  • Inspections.


    City code, general home, and pest and radon inspections.  Your listing agent can represent you (and your interests) during these appointments so you don't lose time from work or school.

  • Evaluating and Negotiating the Offer.


    It takes a certain finesse to navigate the ins and outs of a buyer's offer.  Is the offer acceptable? What closing date works for you? Are you willing to repair the roof in exchange for your full asking price? Helping in shaping your decisions is why you'll want a trusted, objective professional like a JC Jones CENTURY 21 sales associate as your partner.

  • Contract Acceptance.


    Buying a home is one of the biggest decisions of your life.  Rely on the guidance and objectivity of a trusted professional.  Your listing agent can make sure that details are remembered and your interests protected.

  • Legal and Other Documents.


    A real estate transaction can involve listing and purchase agreements, multiple disclosure statements, addenda, amendments and contingencies.  Do you work with real estate-related legal documents every day? Your listing agent does.  Rely on his/her familiarity with the language, timelines and requirements that lie within these legal documents.

  • Dispute Resolution.


    Even the smoothest, simplest real estate transaction involves two parties, with needs and objectives that may differ.  The right real estate agent can provide skilled negotiation and mediation and conflict resolution.  Let your agent deal with the sticking points that can sometimes offend a seller.

  • Facilitate Closing.

    escrow process
    The old adage, "the devil is in the details," is no less true at closing.  Once you've accepted an offer on your home, your real estate agent will work quietly and efficiently to keep things moving smoothly and according to plan.  Broker, lender or title examiner.  Everyone needs paperwork, signatures, verifications and certifications.  From opening escrow to title transfer, it's another area where the right agent can make the difference.

  • Transfers.


    The number one irritant of home buyers is running into unanticipated difficulties in gaining possession of their new (your former) home.  Your listing agent will make help the transition go smoothly by handling everything from finalizing the transfer of utilities to handing over the house keys and ownership to the new owners.

  • Pre-sale Repairs and Upgrades.


    Got a leaky roof that requires a certification? Or perhaps you've agreed to remove an unsightly tree stump.  Your agent can create a tickler system that will remind you to fulfill your obligation in a timely fashion to prevent breach of contract.

  • Title Services.


    Creditors' claims, undisclosed heirs and mistakes in public records.  These are issues that could stall your closing.  JC Jones offers title service as part of our "one-stop shopping" service.

  • Contingency Resolution.


    Contractual contingencies are terms that must be met before an agreement is binding.  The written contingency, therefore, must also be removed in writing, by a specified date, before the contract can be fully in effect.  Whether it's financing, inspection or any other item your agreement is subject to, your listing agent can assist you in understanding and fulfilling these contractual conditions.

You can trust that JC Jones AMERICAN DREAM Century 21 will work as your team, you can’t go wrong.  Feel free to Meet The Team of professionals that will help you achieve your real estate goals. 

You can also visit the complete Marketing Plan page designed to explain to you all the steps that I can take while selling your home.