how to pick a reality company for selling a house (rent, brokers)

[PAFAMILIY]

Hi-
We have just decided to sell our house as opposed to rent it. This is our first house to sell as we were first time home buyers when we bought our house 9 years ago. We need to move to do relocation of job. Husband already started his job in Washington, DC. Ideally we need to sell it by end of summer. I wonder if we will sell it by then. In any case, we are not sure as to how to go about selling it?

What has been the avg length of time a house for 225,000 is selling in this market? Is 4 -5 months an unrealistic timeframe?

At what pt do we contact a reality company? Before or after we do any home improvements (ie.refinished kitchen floors, power wash outside of house, and clean out garage and attic)?

How do we chose a reality company? Do we go with a company that is used state wide such as Long and Foster or Century 21 or a local reality or does it not matter?

In this type of market, do we try to sell it ourselves or not OR is it worth using a realitor if you are thus far clueless on the ins and outs of selling a house?

I am sure I have a trillion more questions but I just need advice. Thanks for taking the time to help!

[PAFAMILIY]

Just wanted to add that the house is in Cheltenham, PA

[FindingZen]

I've moved this thread over to the Real Estate forum.

[2bindenver]

I think the thing to do is to hire a local agent, from friends and co-workers referrals. Interview three, look at the marketing plans, compare plans and personalities - pick the best one you can.

Is there a city-data poster that is also a local Realtor, in your area? Interview them too.

If there are no referrals, look at the Find A CRS to find a Certified Residential Specialist in your area. You can also look for Women's Council of Realtor's members at the Women's Council of REALTORS > Home website.

If that is more than you want to do dm me your contact info and I will pass it along to some great brokers for you to choose from.