Calculating the Value of an Agent You should never calculate the value of an agent based on how low a commission they charge. A high quality agent over a low quality agent can net you as much as fourteen percent more based on the practices they use. It is a common myth that choosing an agent from a large or well known brokerage will result in working with a high-quality agent. Both high and low quality agents can be found side-by-side in many brokerages. Most agents are independent contractors. How do you separate the good from the bad?
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1. Look for an agent that utilizes market data to give you a price opinion. Be wary of an agent that gives you a price they “feel” your home is worth, but doesn’t use factual data to support their pricing. 2. Look for an agent who has resources; a network including staging consultants to contractors, cleaners, or anyone else needed to help the home preparation and sale process go smoothly. 3. Find an agent that has a comprehensive marketing plan (not just involve putting it on the MLS and hosting an open house). 4. Don’t go immediately to an agent who gives you the highest estimate of value without first seeing the data that supports that as the correct value. 5. Shows good service and timely communication.
THE SMART SELLER
