Selling Your Home - How Much Should You Pay Your Real Estate Agent?

Although many home owners try to sell their house on their own, most properties are released on the market through real estate agencies. The work involved in selling a home is quite extensive, and if is not done effectively, the chances for a sale will be drastically reduced.

Hiring a real estate agent is still the most efficient way to sell your home. These qualified consultants know the property market, are familiar with the fluctuating home values in your area, and they can advise you on what buyers are looking for. It may be hard to believe, but trends change constantly. For example, white walls were once a 'must.' Today, they are frowned upon because they no longer represent style and warmth.

Experienced agents will highlight the strengths of your home; they also recognize the flaws, and can help you correct them. Sometimes, rearranging furniture, or repainting a few doors can make a world of difference, adding to the overall attractiveness of your rooms. Real estate advisers can also make suggestions on how to improve your yard, pool area and develop that all-important curb appeal.

When you hire a real estate agent, you will be presented with a listing agreement. The fee the agency proposes will be mentioned in that contract, so read it carefully. In some cases those listing charges may be 7 per cent of the final sales price, while in others, they can be more or less. Some brokers will even be open to negotiations. This is often the case for re-occurring business.

Listing fees often fluctuate, so do your research before putting your house up for sale, or settling on a specific brokerage firm. When you are dealing with a lot of money, dishing out one per cent less on fees can be enough to pay for your moving expenses, or new furniture for your next abode.

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