NOT ALL AGENTS ARE CREATED EQUAL
While some aspects of an agents’ job – like commission percentages and signage requirements – may be regulated by their broker, most services offered to clients by their agents are determined by the agent themselves.
As independent contractors, agents decide how much they work and how much they spend on marketing campaigns etc. Therefore, services and the quality of services can vary from agent to agent, even within the same firm.
Additionally, it is often difficult to know an agents expertise from their title. For example, it’s possible that an agent who has been in the business for 20 years has more experience than a broker who has been in the business for 4 years.
Most agents have a specific niche. A real estate license gives an agent the ability to help their clients buy or sell most any type of real estate, from large commercial warehouses to small residential starter homes. Therefore, many NWA agents focus their attention on a specific type of real estate, client, and/or market.
Ever wonder what the acronyms next to a real estate agents name mean? These stand for various real estate designations which show that an agent is specialized to help clients in a particular niche. An agent with the SRS (Seller Representative Specialist) designation, for example, may be a more seasoned listing agent who works primarily with sellers.
As you can see, not all real estate agents are created equal in experience or service. Don’t settle. Take the time to find the right agent for you and the property you plan to sell.
FIND THE BEST FIT
It’s common for sellers to simply hire an agent that was recommended by a friend. Referrals from friends and family are a great place to start, but before you commit make sure they are the best fit for the property you wish to sell. After all, an agent who helped your friend sell a $400,000 home in Bentonville may not be as familiar with the market and features of your $200,000 home in west Fayetteville.
LOOK FOR AN AGENT WHO IS:
- Is familiar with your town or – even better – your specific neighborhood.
- Has experience selling homes that are like yours in style and price range.
- Offers services you desire and can afford.
- Has availability to take you on as a client.
- Is professional and trustworthy.
Remember, the agency relationship created with your REALTOR puts your agent in a position to create legal obligations for you and have intimate knowledge of your finances, so take care with this important decision.