Ask Phyllis!

Ideal Time to Hire a Realtor

Dear Phyllis,
I look forward to reading your column each week and learning about current trends in real estate. I had my home on the market in 2011 and it didn’t sell.  Now that prices have gone up I want to put it back on the market the first of the year.  When do you think is the ideal time to begin the Realtor® interviews?Ani

Dear Ani,
I suggest that you begin interviewing now and make your selection as soon as possible. Once you hire your Realtor® they should start working on your behalf. They can assist you in preparing your home for sale.  Perhaps you want to have your landscape pruned and your lawn fertilized; there will be ample time for the photographer to take photos (before any holiday decorations).  Nothing dates a listing more than viewing it online in March with a big Santa in front of the home.  Your Realtor® can also begin preparing ad copy, print brochures, open house postcards and any other marketing materials.  You should be ready for a first class marketing campaign the first of the year.

Real estate agents are typically compensated when we successfully close your escrow, if it takes one month or six the compensation is the same.  I think every home seller should hire their Realtor® sooner rather than later and get the most value for their money.

  Phyllis Harb