According to the National Association of REALTORS the median home price for sellers who use a licensed agent is 16 percent higher than a home sold directly by the owner. Selling a home is a complex transaction that takes time, effort and expertise.

  • A REALTOR can help set a realistic competitive price for the seller and figure the approximate net proceeds for the sale based on types of loans, the seller’s outstanding loan balance and closing costs.
  • A REALTOR is familiar with the local home loan market, knows if seller assistance is advisable and can help a seller decide the type of financing that’s best to expedite the sale.
  • REALTORS ensure potential buyers are “qualified” as to their affordable price range prior to showing them a seller’s home. 
  • A REALTOR can list the seller’s home in a Multiple Listing Service (MLS) and can work with other REALTORS to assure the seller a wider range of prospective buyers.
  • A REALTOR will advise prospects of all aspects and conditions of the seller’s home, even faults the seller doesn’t intend to fix. This will protect the seller from later objections.
  • A REALTOR handles most all aspects of the selling process including: phone inquiries, making appointments, open houses and showings along with potential buyer follow-ups.
  • A REALTOR is a skilled salesperson who knows how to merchandise a seller’s home efficiently. A REALTOR knows how to add sales appeal to a seller’s home at a low to moderate cost.
  • If a REALTOR is the seller’s agent, he/she maintains objectivity in responding to criticisms by the buyer and in presenting offers and counter-offers until an agreement is reached.
  • A REALTOR will familiarize the seller with the closing procedures in advance and often attend the event to explain any questions.

              Is your house ready to put on the market? Here’s a handy checklist.

Source: New York State Association of REALTORS