What was at one time your dream home has now become your nightmare. From no kids to three kids, you’re running out of room and your last nerve has been frayed by Jr’s hamster that has been out of his cage for the past week. Hammer in hand, you tromp down RS Johnson Legal to the end of your drive, ready to install your own for sale sign. Might I stop you there, just to let you know you do have other options?
Organized real estate is an ever evolving industry, but one thing remains constant. Your real estate agent is going to take care of the marketing and the showing of your home. Your only job, once your house has been listed, is to make sure it’s in pristine shape for when your agent has to show it.
One important thing to remember when selling your home through an agent in Nova Scotia, is that that agent has been subjected to a host of continuing education courses, and not the type you pick and choose. Each and every year, your agent has to meet certain requirements in order to maintain his or her real estate license.
Something else to consider is the fact that your agent and listing brokerage will have the added benefit of being protected by their Errors and Ommissions Insurance. Another mandatory aspect of maintaining a real estate license in the province of Nova Scotia. This is not only protection for the agent, but for you as a homeseller as well.
Your agent is also going to provide a nice, safe buffer zone between you and the potential buyers. All too often, when dealing directly with a purchaser, the home seller can make an off the cuff remark in relation to a problem with the property, that the buyer is going to take quite literally. Loose lips sink ships, and just as many real estate transactions. It is the job of your agent to handle objections, answer questions, and do their best to sell your property in an honorable and ethical manner. After all, in the majority of cases, you will only pay for the agent’s service upon the successful closing of the sale of your home so your agent will want to see the SOLD sign on your lawn just as badly as you do.
If I might offer one vital piece of advice for when you do opt to hire an agent, is that you be upfront and honest in your motivations. If you are on the verge of losing your home, then your agent has to be made aware of the circumstance in order to better facilitate the quickest sale possible. It’s no good to hold out for top dollar if you don’t have the time to make it. In order for this to be a rewarding partnership, both agent and seller must be on the same page. Quite often, upon the initial consultation with your realtor, they may be able to offer affordable solutions to your situation or put you in contact with other professionals that can help.
