Realtor vs. FSBO
Just this morning I had an old and good friend e-mail me with a questions. She's facing the prospect of selling the home she was raised in. The proceeds are needed to help pay for the care of her aging mother (97!) and she needs realize as much profit as possible for nursing home and hospital expenses. This is what I wrote to her:
"Karen, I can tell you there are MANY, MANY advantages to using a Realtor:"
Realtor For Sale By Owner
1. Can/should/does make Has no control over who
sure each prospective Buyer looks at their home and
is serious and pre-approved won't know if the "Buyer"
Buyer, can afford the asking is a serious pre-approved
price and that the house Buyer, is looking for some-
price and that the house Buyer, is looking for some-
has the necessary amenities. thing to do on a Sunday
afternoon or is just "casing the
joint".
2. Is available to show the Must fit showings into his or
house or can get another her already busy schedule.
Realtor do so.
3. Long & Foster has an agent The house is "off the market"
on duty 7 days a week to every time you don't/can't
answer the phone and respond answer your phone. You must
to questions/inquiries and schedule showing around your
showing appointments. work schedule.
4. Is an experienced negotiator, Is emotionally involved in
understands the ins and outs the sale so it's difficult to be
of the buying/selling process. objective.
5. Knows and can recommend Is on their own when it
title companies, mortgage comes to dealing with the
lenders, repairmen, etc. the Buyers title company,
lender and/or attorney.
I went on to say to my friend, "I think using a Realtor is SO important that I hire one myself to handle my real estate sales, purchases and rentals - an agent who isn't emotionally involved the the sale/purchase of my property".
Read more about the duty of Buyers' and Sellers' agents: http://www.laurenkermode.com/