Sellers, what do you want/expect from your agents? (agent, sales, price)

[Seth Parker]

This has probably been posted here before, but I was just curious as to the differences in expectations from one area to another.

So, what qualities/services do you expect/want from your agent?

What does an agent do that proves their worth to you?

How do you choose an agent? (Other than referral, of course)

I would love to see what you guys have to say about any or all of the above questions.

[cohdane]

As a seller a year ago, I interviewed three agents. I wanted an HONEST price estimate with facts to back it up. (No punches pulled, but don't throw me under the bus either.) Knowledge of my local area and the type of buyers who made up the market.* And an excellent, proven marketing plan.

*Example, we had some "home made" floor to ceiling shelves in one room that were in the house when we moved in. They were quite junky, but we had lots of books and didn't mind them a bit. We asked each realtor whether we should tear them out or leave them-- by most standards they were an eyesore. The realtor we settled on said matter-of-factly, "Leave them. People who buy in JP love books." I knew immediately she was right. And she was.

Her pricing was unpleasant news, but she had an excellent sales record and I was very aware that the market had turned. Her brokerage was rated #1 for my area of the city. They knew the area, it's trends and how to market it inside and out. It wasn't a one-size-fits all realtor approach.

For what it's worth, one of the other realtors was very green, didn't seem to know a thing about my neighborhood, told me to upgrade everything in my house and also recommended the lowest selling price.

The other was a wonderful woman, great presentation, amazing marketing plan, but also didn't ring true on her knowledge of my area. We ALMOST went with her, but she seemed too confident in buyers who could sweep in and rehab our home to their standards. She may have been right. She may have been misguided. Or she may have been blowing smoke. She was extremely professional though and definitely had the best presentation.

[In the Pines]

I like an agent who markets aggressively and has a sense of taste. Living in an area with lots of new cookie cutter, tacky homes, our custom built older home is not the norm but is superior (IMHO) in craftsmanship, detailing, etc. It is also well maintained, updated, and very nicely furnished. It's not the home for everyone but not every buyer wants to live in a giant vinyl box so I know my home has appeal to fans of mid-century architecture, those wanting established old-fashioned neighborhoods, etc. I instantly disregard an agent that tries to compare my home with the new junk sprouting up like mushrooms around town. It tells me they don't have a strong or varied client base and they are sort of the Wal-Mart of realtors - only able to sell something that appeals to the masses. I like agents that welcome all clients, not just those with the easiest houses to sell or those looking for the easiest houses to find.

[bentlebee]

Picks up the phone and calls you back or emails you back when you are trying to reach them.

Is honest and doesn't sell crap which will end up being an annoying issue when they don't follow up on their promisses. (don't say your are going to do an open house, if you won't do it, don't say you will advertise if you won't do it and explain where and which media you will use for the advertsement...don't sy I'm using all these websites that people who aren't a realtor can't get access to if it isn't true...makes the realtor look stupid)

Don't sell hot air...say it as it is and don't act like the teacher who thinks the seller is stupid and retarded!

[In the Pines]

Originally Posted by bentlebee

Don't sell hot air...say it as it is and don't act like the teacher who thinks the seller is stupid and retarded!

Agreed!

[esselcue]

All of the above and I have one who fits all those wants and needs! Now if I can just live up to HER hopes as a seller....I'm tryin', I'm tryin'!