Surprising Ways Real Estate Agents Save Home Sellers Money
Ask any home seller and s/he will tell you that handing over 6% real estate agent commission is probably one of the most painful things when it comes to selling a house.
When you start doing the math, it can become very tempting to list the house as "For Sale By Owner" (FSBO). But, there are many advantages that a real estate agent can give you - they might have incredible staging skills, they might know a few handymen, or they might connect you to the best mortgage originators in town.
Following are a few more reasons why real estate agents are a good investment for your property:
#1 - They market your home for free
Selling your home is really all about marketing your house and real estate agents have the perfect platform and tools for that.
You might end up spending more than you want on marketing materials and you probably won't even be happy with the end product. But when you sign with a professional agent, they take over.
Professional photographs, postcards, brochures, social media marketing and a proper floor plan are just some of the things that will be done on your behalf (not to mention the amount of contacts this will be distributed to!).
#2 - They are stage parents
You might love the way your home looks right now, but this might not be the look that will capture the attention of potential buyers.
An expert real estate agent will know exactly how to stage the rooms in your house to ensure that its best features are highlighted. They will be able to move the furniture around in exactly the right spots and if you're lucky, they might even add a few pieces to complement the home.
They will also be able to give you advice on simple inexpensive changes that will transform the rooms completely.
#3 - They know the right people
The best agents are the ones who hook you up with their real estate squad. They know the best landscaping architects, plumbers, painters, and handymen - and they seem to be available at a moment's notice for your agent!
They might even recommend a friendly, inexpensive mortgage originator to help you with your bond approval.
During the stress of selling a house, it is easy to just throw your hands up and toss money at a problem, but the right real estate agent will prevent all that from happening and guide you in the right direction.
#4 - They'll get you more money
Does this sound too good to be true? You better believe it's the real thing.
The more you get paid, the more real estate agents get paid. They will do anything to ensure that the price is pushed up and met when negotiating with buyers.
It might mean underpricing or it might mean a private showing - whatever their strategy, they'll make it happen.
Once an offer comes in, they will be able to advise you on how to counter offer and take you through the final negotiation process step by step.
#5 - They save you time because time is money
The bottom line is that agents are there to do the things that you cannot do.
Selling your home is not a straightforward process and it can be intimidating, especially if you are a first-time seller. You will need to take a lot of time off work to ensure that you are available for showings and this is going to cost you money.
Real estate agents are there to sell your home - that is their full-time job so that you can relax and focus on yours. So, let them do the heavy lifting for you!