Buying or selling a house can be a stressful, frustrating, and overwhelming process without the right tools. A local real estate agent is a valuable resource when looking to participate in the market.  Here are three tips that agents use every day.

1. Understand that it takes time
Depending on the time of year, the area, and the nature of the local real estate, the housing market is constantly changing. What might have seemed like a good time to buy may not be as favorable a couple of months later. Know that strict timelines can be unrealistic and should be treated as guidelines. Often, home owners also forget to account for the time it takes to prep the home, the time it takes to stage an open house, the length of possible time on the market, the time used in negotiations, and the length of the closing procedure. Be strategic when considering the time required for buying or selling a home.

2. The devil is in the details
Every little thing counts when showing a home. Clutter or dust can easily throw off potential buyers. Even if you do not have the funds for remodeling, little touches like adding plants, giving the home a good deep clean, and using candles with light fragrances can brighten up a home. And don’t forget that first impressions are deep and lasting. The outside of the home for sale should be at its best.

3. Pricing can be tricky
Properly pricing a home is difficult. It’s helpful to use the aid of a local real estate agent to obtain the correct estimate of the house. Where you may see sentiment, they can discern the actual value. They will also know the current market prices and be able to price your home appropriately for sale.  Make sure to do in-depth research.

Article Citation: Mars, Shayla. (February 2, 2014.) 4 things real estate agents want you to know. The Motley Fool. Retrieved February 13, 2014 from: http://www.fool.com/investing/general/2014/02/02/4-things-real-estate-agents-want-you-to-know.aspx.
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