Real estate sections of public libraries abound with books on selling you home privately. In addition to pointers on sprucing up your home for maximum sale ability, they provide homeowners with tips on the "psychology of showing a house." Yet, most homeowners choose to sell through a Realtor.

Selecting a Realtor

Finding the right real estate representative takes some time and care. A good place to start is in your neighbourhood. Check "For Sale" signs to see which brokers are doing business in your area. Ask them about their track record, their knowledge of selling prices in the area and why you should list with them.

A Realtor will give you a detailed comparative analysis of features and prices of houses selling or sold nearby. This helps determine a realistic price.

It's important that you feel comfortable with your Realtor. This person will probably become part of your life for a couple of months popping in with clients or organizing open houses.

Developing a Plan of Action

Once you've decided on a Realtor, you'll want to know what his or her marketing plan will include. How often will there be open houses? Will he or she be listing your property on a Multiple Listing Service? How does he or she plan to advertise the house?

You'll also need to decide whether to list exclusive with one firm or go with the MLS? Generally, the more people that see your house, the likelier it is to sell quickly at the price you want.

Many sellers are anxious to sell their homes quickly. These sellers usually choose the MLS system over an exclusive listing because the property gets greater exposure.

Professional real estate salespeople know how to separate the "lookers" for the "buyers". They can determine a qualified buyer. A couple's income, lifestyle and the date they must purchase helps establish their housing requirements.

Whether or not your home shows well to prospective buyers can make a difference in terms of how long it stays on the market, and what it sells for. Realtors can also give clients tips on how to improve their home to create a good first impression. Fresh paint, new wallpaper and flowers are all elements in the sales effort. Sometimes, rearranging the furniture and taking out extra pieces is all that is needed.

Real estate professionals are experienced in arranging financing and closing deals. A Realtor can assist in negotiating a better offer act as a mediator between buyer and seller and draw up a legally binding contract.

A professionally trained Realtor may be able to sell your home quicker at a better price than you could get privately because he or she has greater access to potential clients. Furthermore, you'll be able to go through the transition period with less worry and inconvenience.

Source: Ontario Real Estate Association