A reader asked what people should look for in a great listing agent. I started answering this question months ago and kept delaying posting this on my blog because I wanted it to be perfect. But I just need to answer the question. So here goes!
Here's my list and it really doesn't differ much from selecting a buying agent even tho the tasks do differ, especially at the beginning of the process. And since you asked me there will be a couple shameless plugs for MY service! :-) When interviewing for a great agent, ask your friends and family for referrals and don't feel bashful about asking for references. I have clients offer to give me references all the time.
Comprehensive Service - When does your listing agent's service start? When you sign the listing agreement? If that's the case you're already at a disadvantage. Before I knew better that was the case for me. Now, with 13 years of experience in real estate I've learned a few things ;-) My service starts from the day a new client contacts me - or it can if they want it to. People who are thinking about selling their homes are gathering information but they're usually not "ready" to put it on the market and the task for some of getting it ready can be very overwhelming. I have an email campaign called "10 Days to Top Dollar" that I share with my sellers. It's a checklist designed to help them view their home like a buyer would. It helps them do those little things that you might otherwise not think of. That's just one example. I also help with getting the home staged so it shows as well as possible and referring the sellers to any tradesmen whose service they need - ie, carpet cleaners and installers, chimney sweeps, contractors, handymen, septic pumpers. But comprehensive service is one way I show my sellers we're on the same team!
Experience - First off in this market the home has to be priced right (or close enough to get buyers in the door). Experience in pricing and getting the home staged properly is essential. After negotiating you MUST have an agent who has experience getting lots of homes through the whole entire sales process in this current market. There will be problems. There will be things that happen that no one saw coming. The process has gotten infinitely more complicated and frustrating the last few years. Your agent can't throw their hands up or be talked into something by the other agent that's not in your best interest. Getting through the tough stuff and having a network of specialists to help w the process is essential. In 13 years I've only had 2 transactions that got through the inspection process that didn't successfully close. I DON'T give up. My philosophy is that if the seller wants to sell and the buyer wants to buy, there IS a way as long as we all keep communicating and treat each other with respect and problem-solve together.
Negotiating Skill - The next 3 things, for me, are all interrelated. Negotiating starts from the first time I speak with another agent. I'm the voice for my client. I give only the information that will help my client's position. The negotiating skills or lack thereof can cost you thousands of dollars. I employ many different techniques to benefit my client's position.
Communication Skill - I hate to be in the dark. I assume my clients are the same way. You need to find a Realtor who will stay in touch with you. I strive to strike the correct balance between letting my clients know about what's happening without weighing them down with too many worrisome details. It's my job to keep all that straight.
Agent Reputation - This is a bonus that can't be taught. But I enjoy an excellent reputation among other agents. That's a huge benefit for my buyers and sellers because other agents want to do business with me. They know I keep on top of the time frames and will do at least my fair share in the transaction. They know I have the experience to keep the transaction on track. So when I'm representing the seller they benefit because agents want to show and sell my listings. When I'm working for a buyer if I'm writing an offer that is competing with other offers, my excellent reputation gives me and my clients a distinct advantage.
I hope that's helpful. Please don't hesitate to contact me about your specific situation. Every person, home, and transaction is unique.
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