How do you find the right agent

**daklaw** · 08-25-2008, 07:22 AM

I put my home on the market the first of June. I called one of the larger brokers in the are and they sent out one of their agents who I signed with. I'm now almost 3 months into the contract and my agent has shown the place one time. I'm only aware of the place being shown 4 times total. The home is in very nice condition and priced right. Any advice on finding my next agent?

**Malok** · 08-25-2008, 08:44 AM

Ask specifically how and where they intend to market your home.

If they start rambling about "put it on the mls, and classified ads in the local newspaper" - move on to the next guy.

They should be able to provide a clear answer as to where your home will be seen.

**markbrian** · 08-25-2008, 12:16 PM

How do you know it is priced right? In 90 days the comps have changed. Ask for a new comp. Lack of showings indicate overpricing.

What was the feedback from the 4 showings? Sometimes it is hard for agents to tell the owner the truth about the property. Feedback puts it on another agent and their client. I am honest, if your house smells-I tell you. If you need to clean,declutter, etc-I tell you.

But calling the large broker does not ensure proper marketing will take place, nor does it ensure the agent they sent over was any good. Ask your neighbors, family and coworkers for recommendations. Then interview several different recommended agents/companies and get several different comps. DO NOT automatically go with the agent who gives highest comp-this can be a trick to get you to list your home!

But also call your agent and ask what the average Days on Market for a home like your is. In most areas, the market is slow right now. Your area may be experiencing slow sales, rapidly dropping prices. Only a local agent canl keep you aware of local market conditions.

**jamesww** · 08-26-2008, 08:46 AM

I disagree with Mark on this point. No showings suggests overpricing. Very few showings shows lack of exposure. Gone are the times where all you had to do was put the home in the MLS. Now one must market the home not just to consumers but also to agents. This practice is the only way you can assure that a property even gets noticed with all the inventory piling up.

**markbrian** · 08-26-2008, 09:35 AM

But after 90 days recomping and feedback is important. It did get 4 showings, so it must be getting some exposure, but James is absolutely right-it may not be getting enough exposure to all the potential buyers. The days of just sticking a sign in the yard and entering into the MLS are over.