What to look for in a Listing Agent


I'm often asked how to select a listing agent that best meets your needs. Just as with your buyer's agent, picking a listing agent is as just as personal of a choice as selecting a doctor, tax advisor/CPA, or lawyer: while there are number of great professionals out there, not all will be the right fit for you, your personality and what you are looking to accomplish.

First, take a look at our Motivation Article . Once you've done that, consider the following items:

  • Great listing agents are very different from buying agents. Not that a person can't be both a great buyer and sellers representative… But these two jobs require different skills. In fact, some agents specialize solely on Buyers or Sellers, or specific geographic areas.

  • Different strokes for different folks. A great listing agent won't just have a cookie cutter approach to marketing your home. Ask about their marketing knowledge, targeting of potential buyers and various tactics that could be successful. Discuss your home's key selling features and get your agent's opinion about their value during the selling process. While you may love your herb garden, would that really make or break a sale?

  • Be prepared to be completely honest with your listing agent. Again, refer to our Motivation Article for some great advice.

  • "The Truth and Nothing but the Truth…" be prepared for frank honesty from your agent. A good listing agent will tell you what improvements need to be made, what will detract from the "curb appeal" of your home, and how simple improvements or repairs can mean thousands of dollars to the ultimate price of your home. Call and request our "12 Steps to Selling Your Home,"   paying close attention to Kitchen and Baths and spots and stains.

  • "We try harder." The Avis commercial makes a great point: Hire a listing agent with enthusiasm - someone who really wants to do a great job.

  • Details, details, details: You've got enough on your mind with selling a home, absorbing all the information you've been given, planning your move… It can all be quite overwhelming. Use your agent to help you master the myriad of tasks so you don't miss an all important deadline or legal requirement.

  • In general, just as with a buyer's agent, you're looking for someone trustworthy who will take the time to understand your needs, someone who really listens and who really understands the real estate market and the communities they serve.  Check out your agent's web site to make sure he/she is up-to-the-minute on top of their 'marketing game.'   And finally, make sure the "agent" still has their license, or is up to date on their licensing requirements with the Maryland Real Estate Commission .

Contact Me:  info@pamkepner.com   410--919-2636      1- 800-456-1996 ext. 2636