Working With A Real Estate Listing Agent: FAQs From Home Sellers
Are you considering selling your home? If so, reaching out to a real estate listing agent could be one of the best steps you can take. Take a look at a few important questions most home sellers tend to have about listing agents.
How is the listing agent paid for their services?
Listing agents work by commission. Therefore, they only receive payment for their services when your home actually sells. The agent will be paid an amount equal to a predetermined percentage of the sale price. For example, a listing agent that charges a five-percent commission would be paid $5,000 if they helped sell a $100,000 property. Percentage ranges charged can vary depending on the agent and the location. The typical rate for a real estate agent's services is five to six percent.
What's the difference between a buyer's agent and a listing agent?
A buyer's agent works alongside a buyer to help them find homes that fit their budget and preferences. A listing agent works strictly with the seller to list their home and help them sell it. A listing agent is also often referred to as a seller's agent because they work explicitly with sellers. Keep in mind, some real estate agents are dual agents, which means they work with both sellers and buyers.
What should you look for in the best listing agent?
Listing agents are not difficult to track down when you decide to hire one to help you sell your home. However, all of them can have their own skill sets to consider. A few good indications you are working with a good listing agent include:
- They have robust insight into the local real estate market
- They have great communication skills
- They are quick to come up with a marketing strategy
- They can quickly help you get in touch with other industry professionals
Do you really need a listing agent to sell your home?
While it is wholly possible to sell your home on your own, the process involves a lot of work. Working with a listing agent allows you to hand over the burden of all there is to do to a true industry professional. Your home will be prepared for market quickly, at the right price point, and the listing will go before the right buyers. Listing agents also commonly work alongside buyer's agents, which means they often sell homes via their professional networks.
Contact a local real estate listing agent to learn more.