One of my colleagues recently described a conversation she had with a homeowner who wished to sell her house without using the services of a real estate broker. The property was listed at a price well below the city evaluation. When our broker pointed out that she would be able to get at least $30,000 more for the sale of her home, the woman responded, “I don’t need a real estate agent, I know what I am doing!”
The owner certainly wanted to avoid paying a commission to the real estate broker, but at what cost? The desire to save money could well be an expensive illusion. Even if we believe that we have enough knowledge to sell our own home, it is obvious that a real estate broker has a unique field of knowledge and expertise.
For example, a broker is committed to do the best marketing possible in order to sell your property. Showcasing your home may include announcements in a local newspaper or in a real estate magazine, a visible sign on your front lawn, a web site uniquely devoted to your home, and the organization of open house days. Furthermore, a real estate agent can list your home on a listing system, such as mls®, which will be visible to all other real estate brokers in your area. All these forms of publicity are paid for by the broker, although he is compensated by the commission which you offer him (a commission which is payable only on the sale of your home). However, should you decide to sell your own home, then you become responsible for these expenses, without having either the same contacts or possibilities.
Don’t forget also that a real estate broker knows the real estate market and has been well trained in the art of negotiation. Also, his knowledge and expertise allow him to avoid possible legal issues, for example in the case of a buyer who presents an unfair purchase offer, or an offer that is not advantageous to you.
It is possible that for certain people, the biggest reason to retain the services of a real estate broker is in regards to the issue of security. Today, one never knows the kind of person who looks for any excuse to enter a home. The owner who sells his own property must take on all the risks inherent in such a transaction, including strangers coming to visit, potential buyers who are not financially approved, or possible legal problems. Retaining the services of a real estate broker avoids these pitfalls and dangers.
Why risk your well-being or even your personal security and that of your family? A Century 21 Excel real estate broker is your local expert. With all his knowledge and expertise, he will help you sell your home at the best possible price and in total security. That way, everyone is a winner!
Nicole Moronval, Secretary
Century 21 Excel