Hiring an NJ Real Estate Agent
7 questions to ask an NJ Real Estate agent before you sell your home
Selling your home can often be a stressful and time-consuming ordeal if you choose to sell yourself or more importantly, hire a Realtor who improperly markets your home. A qualified and experienced NJ Real Estate professional can be your best asset in order to sell your home the fastest and for the highest price. All Realtors are definitely not the same so it would be foolish to hire the first one that you contact. A good starting point in this process would be to do a bit of research. Most people know someone who sells Real Estate or can learn of one by asking friends, family members or neighbors. You should want to hire someone with experience and a solid reputation in the business as this person will represent your best interest. Once you have decided on a few agents whom you are interested, here are some good questions to ask during your initial meeting:
Can you tell me about yourself and your business?
Even if a Realtor has only been in the business for three years does not mean he or she is any less qualified or will take longer to sell your home than someone with 20+ years of experience. Most times, a newly licensed agent has more time to put into your home and can provide service in a timelier manner than someone managing several listings and transactions at one time. It is also important to employ a Realtor who is involved with several professional organizations such as their local NJ Real Estate board and the National Association of Realtors. Furthermore, involvement in community groups and associations reflect on that agent’s networking capabilities and commitment. Finally, asking for a list of references whom you can contact will provide peace of mind and demonstrate the efficiency and good character of the agent.
How much business have you done in the past six months?
An agent experienced with homes similar to yours and familiar with your area can be a great benefit to any NJ Real Estate homeowner. A good Realtor will also have a fairly balanced record of selling homes as well as listing them.
Do you have an assistant?
An agent that has an assistant can prove to very effective in the sale of your home. This allows the agent to spend more time servicing the needs of the client and handling the most important parts of the transaction while having an assistant take care of the details.
What are the specifications of the listing agreement?
A dutiful NJ Real Estate agent will review all details of a listing contract and clarify what is involved in the marketing of your home from start to finish. The fees or commissions he or she is charging should also be discussed and negotiated if necessary, with the standard commission percentage being between 5 and 7 percent. Keep in mind that a Realtor charging a flat fee or significantly low commission does not mean that you as a client will receive the same service or effort in the marketing of your property as a Realtor charging the typical fee.
What do I need to know regarding disclosure laws?
A qualified and professional NJ Real Estate agent will be informed as to which laws apply to you as the homeowner concerning home inspections and should also recommend a certified home inspector. They should also keep a file for management of any paperwork for your home including any zoning reports, structural engineering reports and plans for additions or improvements as well as the appropriate title company information.
What listing price do you propose?
It is crucial to find someone who is knowledgeable in the proper pricing method as this is key to the sale of your home. Overpriced listings will not or will take much longer to sell as the pool of potential buyers is limited. Underpriced listings sell too quickly and yield much less return in the end for you as the homeowner.
How can you market my home best and what differentiates you from the competition?
The Realtor should provide a comprehensive marketing plan which entails their plan for getting your home sold the fastest and for the highest price. Also, innovative agents with creative ideas aimed at attracting the most qualified potential buyers will place them above the competition and give your home the best exposure. In today’s market, it takes more than just print advertising and other outdated techniques to sell a home.
