The real estate market is still on fire! This has many potential sellers asking themselves if listing their home with a real estate agent is necessary or not, especially when homes are selling so quickly. Here are 5 reasons you should hire an agent.
1: Larger networks mean more exposure. While “For Sale By Owner” (FSBO) is still an option for any seller in 2021, it comes with its own set of risks. Using your own network may cause a smaller pool of potential buyers viewing your home and, therefore, could result in a longer home listing period or even a less desirable sale price.
2: Take the emotion out of selling your home. If you love your home and have poured time and energy into it, parting with it may be overwhelmingly difficult for you. A real estate agent can provide unbiased professional advice and expertise. Without an agent by your side, your judgment may be clouded by your predisposed opinions.
3: Negotiation requires skill. When listing your home, you wish to sell it for as much as possible, and you may think parting with the extra agent commission will help you accomplish just that. On the contrary, according to the National Association of Realtors, in 2018, the typical FSBO home sold for $217,900 compared to $295,000 for agent-assisted home sales. An experienced real estate agent knows the pulse of the market, which gives them the leverage of knowing which terms are worth negotiating for and which aren’t.
4: Paperwork and legalities can be overwhelming. Your real estate agent knows the ins and outs of the transaction and will help you avoid future legal risks. Local procedures can also be tricky to understand, such as knowing whether the buyer or seller typically pays fees such as the transfer taxes and closing costs.
5: Real Estate is a full time job. Agents often work atypical hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays. If you are also responsible for a full time job, hiring an agent to to take care of virtually everything will make the process less stressful. They will handle all the calls, showings, negotiations, appraisals, and paperwork.
As tempting as it is to try to sell your home on your own, using a realtor can be more profitable and less stressful in the end.
By: Oyler Group @ Coldwell Banker West Shell