Where have those 6 months gone? Your current listing has expired and you find yourself in the position of wondering what to do. Do you renew your listing with your current real estate professional, or do you interview other agents? Before you do anything, there are some crucial questions you must ask yourself.
Did your current agent return your phone calls promptly, or did it take a few days for him/her to get back with you?
Do you feel you were adequately informed about the market activity of your listing and what your agent was doing to promote your home?
What services did your current agent offer and which of those services do you feel you didn't receive?
What other services would you like to be offered?
What qualities do you require in your real estate professional and does your current agent posses those qualities?
I certainly cannot answer these questions for you but I can give you a real estate professional's point of view. One thing that absolutely irritates me (especially in this market) is the failure of other agents to return my calls in a prompt fashion. I have made several calls recently to arrange showings and half - YES HALF - of those agents STILL have not returned my calls. Those that do often make me feel as though I am bothering them. How do you feel when your agent returns your calls, if he/she does at all? Do you feel like you've interrupted their busy day or do you feel like you are the only client they have? Remember, you are the employer! That agent should be walking all over him/herself to return your call or, a novel idea, actually answering the phone when you call!
I've talked to many sellers when their listing contract expires and the first question I ask is what did your former agent do to market your home. The answer almost invariably is "I don't really know". I sometimes even hear "Once we signed the contract, I never heard from him again!" As the employer, the agent is responsible for reporting exactly what he is doing to get the job done (i.e., sell your home). If he's not willing to do this, he's probably not doing anything.
What services were lacking? Were there any services your former agent offered and didn't deliver? I like to begin a marketing appointment by asking sellers which services are important to them. Once I have made a list of the services they quote, I know I can always over-deliver! The standard services are easy; will your agent go above and beyond for you?
In short, at the end of your listing contract you have to analyze how you feel about the process to date. Are you satisfied or disgruntled? Remember it's not always the "name-brand" company that provides the best service.
Questions or comments? I welcome them! Have a great Sunday.
Sunday, July 29, 2007
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