When a home sits on the market and doesn’t sell, the seller is quick to decide it is the real estate agent's fault. Sometimes, this can absolutely be the case - but most of the time, there is something else going on. Before you take that step and fire your agent, consider a few things:
How is the market?
Sometimes a simple look at other home sales in the area can help clear the air. Some questions to consider:
How is the housing marketing in your area doing?
Are any homes selling?
If they are, look at the price of your home. Is your home over priced?
Is it a buyer’s market?
Is there something you need to change to appeal to more buyers?
What’s the first impression of your home?
Take a critical look at your house. A good agent would suggest updates, maintenance and repairs that can get your home sold faster. If your agent did suggest changes and you decided to see how it goes first… perhaps now is the time for changes.
Some questions to consider:
Do you have animals or smoke? Replacing rugs and additional fabrics can make a huge difference for the first impression of your home.
Have you de-cluttered: Do you need to move some items out of the house for showings and open houses?
Is it clean? Consider hiring a professional cleaning company.
How is your curb appeal?
Is your home available?
If buyers can’t get into your home, they aren’t going to buy it. Make sure you have given your real estate agent some flexibility with the times they can show your home. Have you had some open houses? Occasionally, buyers are against open houses as they don't want neighbors, other sellers or too many random people in their house. Open houses are the easiest way for someone to drop in and view your home, don’t take this great marketing opportunity away from your agent.
Is your agent responsive?
A good agent will be responsive, be a guide, and help you understand all your options before you even get there. If you're finding your agent difficult to contact, it might in fact be time for a new one.
How has your agent marketed your home?
How an agent markets your home can be a defining difference, pay attention and make sure your agent is working for you. Some things I offer for all my clients:
Photographer
Videographer
Marketing online with digital ads
Updated MLS
Printed brochure for open houses and showings
If you’re doing all the right things and your agent isn’t, let’s chat.