Page 16 - Sept NEWSWATCH PROOF

Becky Boston Brings You Homeowner Tips
Becky Boston REALTOR®
As your neighborhood Realtor, I like to share helpful information should you be planning to buy or sell a home.
For all of your Real Estate needs, I am here to help you get moving!
225.936.5556
10 Questions to Ask Before
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
What is your fee structure?
Commissions for both listing and buyers agents are paid by you from the proceeds of the sale. In recent years, competition has led some agents to be more flexible with their fees. But before you jump at a lower rate, ask what’s included with the fee so you aren’t surprised by out-of-pocket expenses such as marketing materials.
What is your regular method of communication?
Now that technology has provided us with a variety of ways to communicate other than the telephone, it’s a good idea to find an agent who shares your preferred means of contact.
How long will it take to sell my home?
Ideally, the selling price for your home should hit the sweet spot where it attracts interest from a number of qualified buyers while still allowing you to realize maximum profit. Look at the agent’s average number of days on the market and how much, if any, final sale price differs from asking price.
Could you provide me with reviews and references?
Personal recommendations from a trusted friend or family member are always helpful. Even if you don’t have that, a reputable
real estate agent should have no problem furnishing you with legitimate references.
Can you help me find other professionals?
Selling your home requires interaction with a number of other real estate professionals such as mortgage brokers, home inspectors, and title companies. Good real estate agents will have a network of professionals they have successfully worked with.
listing Your Home
All real estate agents are required to hold a current license, but that’s the only consistent qualification across the board. Each real estate agent has a unique combination of experience, success rate, and other relevant criteria.
How do you decide which listing agent is best suited to meet your specific needs? Before selling your home, interview potential agents using this list of questions designed to help you make an informed choice.
1. How long have you been working as a real estate agent?
This is not the same as asking how long someone has been a real estate agent. The nature of the industry allows people to work part- time or take time off between periods of work.
2. Do you work with other associates?
Many real estate agents work as part of a team, whether it’s with other agents or support staff. Having multiple people focused on selling your home can be a good thing, but make sure you’re clear on the responsibilities of each team member.
3. What neighborhoods do you concentrate on?
Ask the agent if they’ve sold any homes in your neighborhood. When an agent works in a certain area on a regular basis, they have their finger on the pulse of recent real estate transactions as well as local features and amenities that help to sell your home.
4. What marketing strategies do you use?
There’s more to selling your home than simply listing it on the MLS. Find out whether the agent goes the extra mile with marketing tools such as professional photographs or staging advice.
10. Whatputsyouabovethecompetition?
Let the agent tell you in their own words what they can give you that the competition can’t. How the agent sells themselves gives you a look at the skills they’ll bring to selling your home.
Selling your home is a huge undertaking, and the relationship with your real estate agent is key. Take the time to find an agent you can rely on to guide you through the journey.
For all of your Real Estate Needs, Let me, help you, GET MOVING!
bboston@cjbrown.com | www.cjbrown.com | 14452 Airline Hwy., Baton Rouge, LA 70817