Not ALL Realtors Are Created Equal! Part 2 - Representing a Seller

Selling your home can be a complex and challenging process, especially if you're a homeowner in Georgia looking to maximize your returns and attract the right buyers who see the same value in your home that you do. While some individuals consider listing their homes themselves, enlisting the services of a knowledgeable realtor will bring numerous advantages, usually financial, that can make a significant difference. In this article, we'll explore the compelling reasons why you should seriously consider partnering with a realtor who is extremely familiar with the North Georgia market and the process in helping you get the most for your home.???

Expertise in the Georgia Real Estate Market :

The realtor you choose must possess in-depth knowledge of the local real estate market. They must constantly stay up to date with current market trends, pricing fluctuations, and neighborhood & community dynamics. Their expertise will help to accurately evaluate your home's value and determine the optimal listing price. Keep in mind that “optimal” does not mean the highest “zestimate” price. A good realtor has the pulse on the Georgia real estate market and will explain how to competitively price your home to attract potential buyers.? They will use comparative homes that have sold/closed in the past 6-9 months and also within about a two (2) mile radius of your home.? Other factors such as upgrades, schools, acreage, etc may also contribute to the proposed listing price.

Extensive Network and Marketing Strategies :

Your realtor should have access to a vast network of contacts, including other real estate professionals, contractors, potential buyers, and industry experts. Leveraging their connections, the realtor you partner with can effectively market your home to a wide audience, both online and offline. Through multiple listing services (MLS), professional photography, social media, virtual tours, open houses, and targeted marketing campaigns, your realtor should be able to? amplify your home's visibility, increasing the likelihood of attracting qualified buyers.? It is important to note that “qualified buyers” means they plan to include a letter from their lender with their offer that the buyers have at the very least been pre-approved.? Personally, I want my buyers to be pre-underwritten as well and I will contact the lender of any offer a seller plans to accept.

Property Showings and Open Houses :

Making sure your realtor is willing to coordinate property showings and open houses should be communicated as well. This can be a crucial duty of a realtor who you choose to represent you.? Not all buyers have a realtor representing them and these buyers cannot view your home otherwise.? There may also be a possibility that a buyer’s agent cannot coordinate showing the home when the buyer would like to view it.? As part of their fiduciary responsibility to you, your realtor should schedule 1-2 open houses for you to allow for broader exposure and generate more foot traffic. During these events, your realtor can showcase your home's unique attributes and answer any questions from potential buyers.

Skillful Negotiation and Representation:

Negotiating the best terms and conditions can be a daunting task, even for the most “experienced” homeowner.? Your realtor is your partner in this process and should act as your skilled negotiator, advocating for your interests and ensuring you secure the best possible deal. Their experience in handling negotiations and contractual matters helps protect your investment and save you from potential legal pitfalls as well.??

Contract and Documentation:

Let’s go!? When you accept an offer, your realtor goes into overdrive and will oversee and manage the preparation and signing of legal contracts and documentation. They ensure that all necessary disclosures, agreements, and addendums are completed accurately and in a timely manner.? While you may not see them as much, your realtor is working closely with the buyer’s agent, the lender, closing attorneys, and other parties involved in the transaction to ensure a smooth and legally compliant process.? As I have stated before, many realtors employ a transaction coordinator to assist with this process.? The better the transaction coordinator, the smoother the process!?

A Few More Things To Note :

You will hear terms like “due diligence”, “appraisal contingency”, “time is of the essence”, “amendments”, etc.? Your realtor is taking this journey with you so make sure they explain these terms, and others, as they turn up.? For instance, during due diligence you essentially need to make your home accessible within reason for inspections.? Depending on what is found during the inspection(s), there may be more negotiations as to “concerns to be addressed”.? More information on these terms and others in the near future.? In the meantime, your realtors should provide guidance regarding any potential challenges or issues that may arise during the process.??

Going Beyond The Transaction :

As I have stated many times before, your realtor's responsibilities do NOT end at the closing table. Going beyond the transaction is imperative!? Unless my friends are moving out of state, I am ready and willing for the next challenge.? Whether they are buying a larger home for a growing family, downsizing, or simply want to move into a community that better suits their needs, I want to take that journey with them as well.? Having lived in Georgia for over five (5) decades, there are not many places in North Georgia I am not familiar with.? ;)? Even if you are moving to another state, your realtor should be able to help you find your next real estate partner who can provide you the best service possible when purchasing your next home.

When it comes to selling your home in North Georgia, or anywhere for that matter, having a realtor who is there to support you every step of the way can provide you with a distinct advantage. Make sure they have the communication skills, marketing strategies, negotiation skills, and network of contacts that bring you the most value in assisting you to sell your home faster and at the best possible price. When you choose the right realtor, you'll experience less stress and save valuable time and usually money!? So, whether you're a seasoned homeowner or selling your first property, consider partnering with a realtor who you believe you could share a friendship with for years to come.? If you do, they will be there for you whenever you need them.