What a Selling Agent Does: How to Maximize Your Sale
A good selling agent does much more than list your home. Here's what you should expect.
Valuation & Pricing
Professional agents compare similar homes and current market conditions to price yours fairly. Too high and it sits; too low and you lose money. Good pricing is critical. Agents who pull comps and explain pricing are best.
Marketing
Professional photography, virtual tours, online listings, printed materials, open houses, and direct buyer outreach. Good agents market continuously, not just initially.
Screening Buyers
Good agents qualify buyers before wasting your time. They know which buyers are serious and which are just curious. This saves you time and stress.
Negotiation
When offers come in, good agents negotiate terms beyond price: contingencies, closing date, inspection provisions. Expert negotiation can improve your position significantly.
Coordination
Inspections, appraisals, closing paperwork—good agents coordinate everything and keep all parties communicating. This prevents delays and surprises.
What to Look For in an Agent
- Local market expertise
- Strong negotiation track record
- Responsive communication
- Professional marketing capabilities
- Reasonable commission rate
Commission
Typical range is 1.5-2% total (split between buyer's and seller's agents). Negotiate, but remember cheaper isn't always better. Good agents pay for themselves many times over.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a good selling agent actually do besides list the home? They price it using comparable sales, market it continuously through photography and outreach, screen buyers, negotiate terms beyond price, and coordinate inspections, appraisals, and closing paperwork.
How much commission do selling agents typically charge? A typical range is 1.5-2% total, split between the buyer's and seller's agents — though cheaper isn't always better.
Why does buyer screening matter? Good agents qualify buyers before wasting your time on viewings, distinguishing serious buyers from those who are just curious.
What should I look for when choosing an agent? Local market expertise, a strong negotiation track record, responsive communication, professional marketing capabilities, and a reasonable commission rate.