Real Estate Marketing – Techniques You Should Expect From Real Estate Agents In 2010
Today’s real estate market is highly competitive for those who are trying to sell their homes. While just about everyone can agree that it’s a buyer’s market, it is an indisputable fact that there are real estate agents who are still doing well, even in this economy. The question is how to choose the right agent – the one who is going to be able to get you the best sale price in a reasonable timeframe. Here are some things to look for in an agent this year.
One necessity for today’s real estate agent is a solid online presence. Firstly, your agent’s firm should have a professional, easy to use web site complete with a MLS listing search. Many agents offer handy info about the local market, as well as tips for buying and selling homes. Many brokers also utilize social media in order to build networks and notify potential buyers as well as other real estate agents about homes recently listed for sale. An agent who has taken these steps is clearly cognizant of the importance of their presence on the Web.
It’s also important to know that the MLS isn’t the only way your home can be listed on the Web. You’ll want to make sure that whoever you choose also will list your home on other real estate web sites for maximum exposure. While Craigslist.org remains a perennial favorite, having a good listing on other appropriate sites can help to ensure that your listing is viewed by as many potential buyers as possible. Your agent should be familiar with the most popular real estate Web sites for your area, and should submit your listing to each one that is appropriate.
Many of the best real estate agents have chosen to specialize in certain areas of the market in their area. Finding a broker that sells properties similar to yours is a good idea, particularly if your home falls into a specific category, like small ranches, historical homes, or luxury homes.
Having a quality listing for your home is critical for generating plenty of interest from buyers searching for homes like yours. Your agent’s listings should be accurate and detailed, with full lists of amenities. They should offer several good pictures, and maybe even interactive video tours or 360 degree photos. In other words, your agent should have all the tools available to show your home to its best advantage in order to attract more buyers. Some agents go so far as to hire professional photographers for home listings.
Before the photos are taken, however, a good agent should advise you on preparing your home for showing to potential buyers. They will be able to point out problems that will catch a potential buyer’s eye and possibly contribute to a lower sale price, so you can fix them before a buyer ever sees them.
The best agents will also make certain that all prospective buyers taken to your house are pre-qualified before you are disturbed. Most of us don’t appreciate strangers wandering about in our homes uninvited. Making sure that potential buyers are pre-qualified for loans will mean only people who can actually buy your house will be taking up your time.
Shopping around for an agent that understands that you have just lost a lot of your equity to the economy is important. In this economy, every dollar counts, so you might also inquire regarding commission rates. Some may be willing to work with you to help you keep more of your remaining equity. It certainly can’t hurt to ask!
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