When a seller is getting ready to listing their property, most likely they are going to be choosing a REALTOR® from a local real estate company to assist with the sale. What a seller needs to know is that REALTORS® and real estate companies do not always have the same ideal ology as to how to market a property. So, it is a good idea to interview at least two different sale associates, as to how they are currently marketing the properties they have listed. Also, during the interview process you will get an idea if you and your potential agent’s personality are going to be a fit which is important, as you will be in constant communication with the agent you choose. The following are some questions that you should be asking during the interview process:
- How long has the REALTOR® serving their community been selling real estate?
- What types of marketing are they currently using? Are they marketing their listings with newspaper ads, online advertising or with their personal website?
- What type of advertising program does the REALTORS® company provide (some companies have their own marketing plan that goes alongside the sales associate’s such as running their own website, advertising with various online real estate sites, and company newspaper inserts which will give your property even more exposure).
- How many listings does the REALTOR® currently have? There are actually two ways of looking at answer to this question. Some feel that if an agent has a multitude of listings then the agent may not have the time to handle the client’s listing the way they want them to. Another theory is that if the agent has a good supply of listings then there are many people in the community who have entrusted them to sell their property, and they are successful at getting properties sold. This is especially true if they have a team of assistants working for them. It all depends on your perspective.
- Does your REALTOR® promote your property with an open house? Depending on the location of the property, an open house will not only give the agent an opportunity to promote your property, but also give your agent a chance to find a buyer for your property.
- Ask your REALTOR® if they have any testimonials on file that they are willing to share with you. This will give you an idea of how respected the sales associate is in their work. Also, you may want to ask them what kind of volunteer work that they do for the community. It will show you how well rounded they are as an individual and it will also speak to their character.
Taking the time to ask questions of the potential candidate should really help you determine which agent will work well with you in the sale of your property. If you have a good rapport with your REALTOR® and you are confident in their abilities, the more likely you will have a great experience when selling your property.
Jason Dempsey is a REALTOR® with Coldwell Banker Grass Roots Realty located at 855 Sutton Way, Grass Valley. He can be reached at 530-205-4650 or you may e-mail him at jason.dempsey@coldwellbanker.com. You may also visit his website at http://www.dreamhomesnevadacounty.com.

