A good listing agent really serves 3 purposes. They market and advocate, they organize and schedule and finally they negotiate and protect. In general, a listing agent really earns their money. In fact, I have always felt it is much more work to list than to sell. But, for most professionals it is good to have a balance of listings and buying clientele.
So when you list your property with an agent what marketing services can you expect? Well, the listing agent should get the property photographed and posted on the Multiple Listing Service quickly. A sign is still a very useful tool and should be posted within days. Newspaper and real estate publications take more time to arrange with print schedules. But, your agent should have made arrangements for at least one printed ad. On South Padre, an agencies web presence is a crucial sales tool as most of our buyers are distance purchasers. A posting and description on their website should be achieved quickly for maximum response. Other sites like Realtor.com are available to those agents with realtor designations and make powerful sales tools.
Once the word is out on your property the agent takes on a new role. They must arrange for showings with clients who have inquired about a listing and allow other agents access. This is easily achieved with a lockbox but, more of a challenge for owners who live in the home or have pets, or renters, etc. The agent must also obtain answers to questions and know every little detail so that it can be rapidly conveyed to interested parties or other agents. It is the listing agents responsibility to gather accurate facts should an unusual question arise.
Once a contract comes in the listing agent is responsible for mediation and fair play between parties. There is a protocol that is to be followed when multiple offers are made to ensure that all involved are fairly represented. The listing agent must make an unbiased presentation of all contracts for the owner to choose from. When a contract is being negotiated, the listing agent is the advocate for the owner. They must be trusted to handle conflicts and make requests with the sellers interests in mind. Agents who lose their temper, act slowly or are unpleasant to their fellow agents will only bring disagreement and stress to a deal. Deals are saved or lost by the agents ability to mediate and problem solve. When a contract is negotiated and in title the agent still continues to work. They must supply information like the sellers disclosure, survey, and condo declarations within a timely fashion. Then they must work closely with the title company to ensure that all aspects of the deal are progressing. It is not unusual to find a listing agent struggling to obtain a lost survey, provide comps for appraisers, or diligently following up with a slow financing institution.
A good listing agent is a powerful ally that can make selling your property a lot less stressful. Take your time in choosing one that offers the best services and makes you comfortable. You may be spending a lot of phone time together and must trust them with your property.
