If you want to sell your house for top dollar, you've got to start by hiring the right real estate agent.
Choosing the right listing agent to sell your home is the first (and most important) step in the selling process.
A good agent can make the entire process smoother, faster, and more profitable.
But these days, prospective agents are everywhere. There are over 1.5 million realtors in the U.S.
So, how do you find the best agent for you?
This guide will help you evaluate potential agents, ask the right questions, and hire someone who puts your best interests first.
What You'll Learn:
- What a listing agent does (and why it matters)
- How the right agent can help you get the best deal
- What to ask before signing a listing agreement
- How to compare local market expertise
- Red flags and mistakes to avoid
What Does a Listing Agent Do?
A listing agent, also known as a seller’s agent, represents the home seller in a real estate transaction.
Their job is to help you navigate paperwork, coordinate open houses, negotiate offers, and get your home in front of the right potential buyers.
If money is a top priority for you, the agent's job is to get you the best price.
Keep in mind that some sellers prioritize a fast closing or specific sale terms over a higher price. Everyone's situation is different.
The listing agent will work with the buyer's agent, also called the selling agent, to send contracts, inspection notices, and loan documents.
Here's what a good listing agent does:
- Price your home based on current market data and comparable home values in your neighborhood
- Create a marketing strategy with professional photography, videography, virtual tours, and print advertising
- Coordinate showings and open houses
- Communicate with buyers’ agents, inspectors, mortgage lenders, and attorneys
- Guide you through the entire process, from listing to closing
Why Choosing the Right Agent Matters
Selling your home is a significant financial transaction. In fact, it's likely one of the largest financial transactions you'll ever make.
The agent you choose to work with is one of the most important factors in what kind of home-selling experience you'll have.
The best listing agents have:
- In-depth knowledge of market conditions in your local area
- Experience with your property type and price range
- A deep network of prospective buyers and industry contacts
- Strong negotiation skills
- A marketing plan tailored to your home
For first-time home sellers, the difference between a good agent and the best real estate agent can mean thousands of dollars and weeks of stress.
Top real estate agents will earn you more money and make the whole process a breeze. Inexperienced agents can make the process an absolute nightmare and cost you thousands.
How to Research Potential Agents
Before you hire anyone, do your homework.
A little bit of due diligence goes a long way.
Use online reviews to see what past clients say. If the realtor in question doesn't have any reviews, be wary.
Just because someone has an active real estate license doesn't mean they have the experience, depth of knowledge, and attention to detail to do a good job selling your home. Look for agents who invest in high-quality marketing, understand home improvement strategies to boost value, and know how to attract potential buyers using the latest marketing tactics.
Search your agent's current listings and evaluate their online presence. How do the photos look? What does the description say? Pay attention to how an agent markets all of their listings.
Check if the agent has additional training in a specific niche. Some agents hold certifications like Seniors Real Estate Specialist, Luxury Certification, or Residential Specialist.
Check for any disciplinary actions through your state’s licensing board. You'll also want to make sure this agent hasn't been sued!
Interview Multiple Agents (At Least Three)
Interview several agents before deciding who to work with.
It’s a good idea to compare at least three agents to get a sense of their expertise, communication style, and approach to your home sale.
And don't rush!
You want to make an informed decision and take your time deciding who is the best fit for you.
Hiring the best listing agent starts with asking important questions that help you evaluate them.
Here are some key interview questions to ask:
- How long have you been in the real estate industry?
- How many years of experience do you have as a listing agent?
- How many homes have you sold in this price range, neighborhood, and zip code?
- What is your average days on market?
- What is your commission rate?
- What is your approach to marketing strategies and getting my home the most exposure?
- How will you help me determine the best asking price?
- How do you prefer to communicate? Phone calls, emails, texts?
- What is included in your listing agreement?
- Can you walk me through your process with first-time homebuyers who may purchase this home?
What Sets the Best Agents Apart
The best listing agents offer more than just industry credentials. They bring years of hands-on experience in residential real estate and a proven track record of getting homes sold at or above market value.
These agents use data-driven pricing strategies based on current market trends, square footage, and the condition of your home to recommend a realistic and competitive asking price.
What truly sets a good real estate agent apart is their ability to provide personalized guidance.
From minor home improvements to full-scale staging, they know what attracts buyers in your local market.
Equally important is their communication style: clear, consistent, and tailored to your preferred method (call, text, email). The best realtors adapt their communication to fit their clients' needs.
The best agents also maintain strong working relationships with mortgage lenders, photographers, stagers, contractors, and other professionals who play a role in your home sale.
Their network becomes your advantage, streamlining the entire transaction from listing to closing.
Red Flags to Watch Out For
Don’t make the biggest mistake of choosing the wrong agent.
Watch out for:
- Overpromising on your asking price with no market data
- Poor communication or slow follow-up on phone calls or emails
- No online presence to market listings
- Little experience in your part of town
- Vague answers to your questions
- No written selling strategy or marketing plan
Understand the Listing Agreement
Before signing with a listing agent, carefully review the listing agreement. It will outline:
- The length of your agreement (30, 60, or 90+ days)
- The commission rate and how it's split with the buyer’s agent
- Terms for cancellation or switching agents
- Included services, like professional photography and staging
Tips for First-Time Sellers & Unique Situations
If you're a first-time home seller, or navigating a unique situation like buying and selling at the same time, there are a few things to keep in mind.
While it may be tempting to hire a friend or family member as your agent, this decision should be based on their qualifications, not just your personal relationship. Unless that friend or family member is a top agent in your market with a proven track record, it might be worth talking to other candidates.
If you're selling and buying a new home simultaneously, it's especially important to work with a real estate professional experienced in managing both aspects of the transaction.
These agents understand how to align the timelines of the home buying and selling processes to avoid missed opportunities and unnecessary stress.
You should also consider agents who specialize in specific niches, such as new construction or downsizing, depending on your goals. These professionals bring valuable expertise to the table and can tailor their advice to your needs.
Ask potential agents about their experience with home improvement tips that can increase your home’s value before listing. The right improvements can make a big impact.
Most importantly, your agent should be able to walk you through the entire process clearly and confidently, giving you peace of mind from day one.
Your First Step: Start Interviewing Now
Start interviewing sooner than later! Even if you’re a year away from selling.
Finding the perfect real estate agent starts with doing your research and asking the right questions.
Whether you’re selling a condo, single-family home, or luxury estate, you deserve a good listing agent who can help you get top dollar and a smooth sale.
According to the National Association of Realtors, 90% of home sellers use a licensed realtor.
Interview multiple agents. Look at their marketing. Ask smart questions. And trust your instincts.
Leave no stone unturned when it comes to hiring the right agent to entrust with the sale of your home.
Media Contact
Company Name: LivingStLouisMo
Contact Person: Kellie Lasater
Email: Send Email
City: New York
Country: United States
Website: https://livingstlouismo.com/
