Why Sellers Should Use A Realtor

Why Sellers Should Use A Realtor

Home sellers are often the ones who perceive that a Realtor is an expensive "extra" or "necessary evil". However, they stand to lose the most by opting to go it alone in a real estate transaction. Several years ago a home in Atlanta could sell with a simple yard sign in the yard. Selling a home in today's market requires much more creative teamwork to get the job done.

A professional Realtor is experienced in analyzing your home's location and condition relative to the prevailing market. Because they know the area, Realtors can assess your specific home in light of current competition in order to price it strategically and promote it confidently.

Your home represents a huge investment of time and money. In any selling situation, the Buyer's interest will depend upon their perceived value of the "product".

Professional Realtors are aware of highly-desirable home features as well as the "deal-killers" in the market. They will help you emphasize the most advantageous ones while minimizing those which might delay a sale. If there are products which have been the target of lawsuits, they can help you find suitable repair people whether you decide to repair it now or have the numbers available for a future Buyer. Often a few dollars spent today will greatly increase your home's perceived value -- and a Realtor can help guide that decision.

As in any business transaction, time is money. In real estate, the rule of thumb is that the longer your house is on the market, the less it will sell for. Buyers perceive that something must be wrong with a home which has been on the market for more than a month or so and their offering price will reflect their suspicion.

Also, consider that approximately 40% of real estate sales in the Atlanta area are relocation purchases. This is the hottest part of the market, with buyers flying in with cash and motivation from their employer. These buyers don't sit in their hotel room looking at for-sale-by-owner ads. Instead, they ride around with a Real Estate agent searching for a new home. That real estate agent will likely only show them homes listed for sale with other agents. A Realtor's ability to market your home to the widest variety of potential Buyers gives you the best chances of reaching that perfect Buyer as soon as possible.

Additionally there are the "hassle factors" involved in selling a home yourself. Factors such as being available to show your home at a Buyer's convenience, holding an Open House on a regular basis, knowing which terms will be to your best advantage in a contract and implementing those terms in a timely manner are just a few issues you will be faced with if you decide to go it alone - with no Realtor support or representation. Hiring a professional Realtor to represent your best interests will not only protect your wallet...it may save your sanity too.

By utilizing the services of a capable real estate agent, sellers can rest easier knowing they have greatly increased their chances of selling their home for the most advantageous terms in the shortest possible time on the market.