Why you should list with a professional

Listing your home with a licensed real estate professional has the following advantages:

• They have knowledge and expertise in your neighborhood
• They have a large network of brokers, bankers, contractors and buyers to assist in the process
• They know how and where to market your property
• This is their job, they are trained and licensed for a reason
• They know and understand state-required disclosures which look out for your best interests
• They know how to negotiate
• They have the most accurate data source (MLS) which is only available to licensed agents
• They know how to overcome objections and roadblocks that occur in real estate transactions and closings
• Their continuing education keeps them up-to-date on housing issues
• They look out for the safety of your belongings during showings
• Homes get more exposure due to the resources made available to licensed agents that are not available to the public

If you are planning on selling your home, it is very likely that the thought of selling it yourself and saving the sales commission has crossed your mind.  Although saving a few thousand dollars may seem like the logical thing to do at the time, it is proven through housing industry experts that homes listed with a real estate agents are sold quicker and for more money.  When you market your own home, you will have to take on all of the responsibilities and jobs that a real estate professional would do, in addition to your everyday job.