A realtor can play a crucial role in helping a home seller navigate the process of selling their property. Here’s a list of things a realtor should do for a home seller:
1. Provide a Market Analysis (CMA)
- Comparative Market Analysis (CMA): A realtor should provide an accurate home value assessment by comparing the home to similar properties that have recently sold, are currently for sale, or were taken off the market. This helps set the right listing price.
2. Advise on Home Preparation
- Staging: Recommend staging tips to make the home more appealing to buyers, such as decluttering, deep cleaning, or even hiring a professional stager.
- Repairs and Improvements: Suggest any minor repairs or upgrades that could increase the home’s appeal and value, such as fresh paint, landscaping, or fixing small issues.
3. Marketing the Home
- Professional Photography: High-quality photos of the home are essential to attract potential buyers. Realtors often hire professional photographers to take great interior and exterior shots.
- Online Listings: List the property on popular real estate websites (e.g., Zillow, Realtor.com, MLS).
- Social Media Promotion: Use social media platforms to reach a broader audience.
- Virtual Tours: If needed, provide virtual tours or video walk-throughs for remote buyers.
4. Create a Strong Listing Description
- Write a compelling listing description that highlights the home’s features, such as its layout, location, and special amenities (e.g., pool, remodeled kitchen, etc.).
5. Host Open Houses & Showings
- Open Houses: Organize open houses to give potential buyers a chance to see the home.
- Private Showings: Coordinate private showings for interested buyers, working with their schedules.
6. Negotiate Offers
- Offer Review: Help the seller review offers from potential buyers, including the offer price, contingencies, and closing timeline.
- Negotiation: Negotiate on the seller’s behalf to ensure they get the best possible deal, whether that’s a higher price, better contingencies, or more favorable terms.
7. Coordinate with Other Professionals
- Lender Coordination: Ensure the buyer is financially qualified, including working with lenders to verify pre-approvals and financing.
- Inspectors and Contractors: Help arrange inspections and coordinate with contractors for any necessary repairs after an inspection.
- Attorney and Title Services: Some states require an attorney to handle the closing process, and the realtor should coordinate with the title company and attorney for a smooth transaction.
8. Help with Paperwork
- Contracts: Ensure all the legal paperwork (contracts, disclosures, agreements) is properly filled out and signed.
- Disclosures: Help the seller complete required property disclosures and any other legal documentation.
9. Handle Offers and Counteroffers
- Review Counteroffers: A realtor will guide the seller through counteroffers, helping them make informed decisions to either accept, reject, or make a counterproposal.
10. Provide Guidance Through the Closing Process
- Explain Closing Costs: A realtor will explain any fees or costs involved in closing the sale, such as agent commissions, repairs, or prorated property taxes.
- Timeline: Keep track of the closing timeline and ensure all steps are completed on schedule.
11. Offer Post-Sale Assistance
- Even after the sale, a realtor can offer help, whether it’s finding movers, dealing with any last-minute issues, or simply providing guidance about the next steps.
12. Handle Marketing Materials & Advertising
- Advertise the property on various platforms, including local newspapers, online listings, and real estate networks, ensuring maximum exposure.
By taking these actions, a realtor helps make the home-selling process smoother, faster, and more profitable for the seller. If you’re a seller, it’s important to choose a realtor who’s proactive and well-versed in these areas.