“I’m looking for a great realtor,” the homeowner says to me. This seller was savvy, they knew that the first person to call was a professional stager. They chose to have their house detailed so it would look great online. I suggested some key questions to ask the realtor when they began their search for an agent. Since they last purchased in 2002 I explained promoting a house in today’s market is different than ten years ago.
Looking back
Ten years ago realtors took a listing and used the three “P’s” to market:
- Put up a sign
- Put the listing on the MLS
- Prayed for buyers
Unfortunately, some realtors still do market this way. But in today’s market, we have what everyone uses; the internet. Buyers are very smart, they know what is available, what price is reasonable for the value they are looking for. Smart realtors know too, they are professionals that understand market conditions and the best way to price the house or product. The difference is, the realtor that markets the new way will give you the advantage to sell faster and for more money.
New Way
A realtor that takes a listing today should be using current three “P’s” to market:
- Prep the house, get it ready by staging and detailing the house so it shines
- Pricing the house so that it is comparable to others in the market
- Promotion getting the house not only on the MLS but also social media, even more so then print media
This is the new way realtors assist a seller in a successful sale in today’s market. Things have changed a lot, of course, technology has aided in those changes too. A savvy realtor knows how to currently promote a property online by ensuring the product that is being sold resonates with buyers. The presentation is important to obtain fantastic professional photos to promote online and on various social platforms.
So if you are thinking of selling, consider what the agents you are interviewing are telling you. How will they support you through the entire sale? The first and foremost step should be the presentation, then fantastic photography, a sharp price and once those are in place, promote everywhere the internet allows. Once those are in place the showings will go smoothly and quickly, your professional agent will obtain an optimal price because you ensured the property was presented in the best light.
Other Good Reads
8 Reason Why Your House is Not Selling
Sterile or Styled | Makes a Difference When Selling
