Women’s Finance Blog

Think a real estate agent will only have your best interests at heart? Maybe sometimes, but oftentimes realtors are only interested in their own commission price, especially if it means selling at a lower price now so they can get the commission now instead of waiting a month or two for a higher offer. Here are some things to check and ask about before you sign with a realtor to sell your house.

How will they promote your house?
Generally realtors pay for all advertising costs related to your house sale. So check and make sure that your house will be advertised appropriately, such as in the local printed real estate listings and the newspaper. Will the for sale sign go up the day you sign your contract, or when he or she gets around to it?

What about open houses?
How frequently will they hold open houses? Will your realtor be the one running the open house, or will it be an assistant or junior realtor with the agency?

Do they sell your property type or price range regularly?
Some realtors only deal with single family homes while others cater to condo or townhouse buyers. Likewise, some only touch listings higher than $X. Be sure to check and see that your realtor has experience in your particular area before you sign.

Contact information?
Do you have a cell phone number you can reach the realtor at easily? Or do all your calls get routed through an assistant or answering service? These are important things to check, you don’t want to end up waiting days to hear back from a phone call.

Selling price
Are you happy with the selling price the realtor is setting? Are you worried it is too high or too low? Be sure to voice your concerns before signing.

Filed under: Real Estate