What a Home Seller Really Wants From Their Agent

In today's fast-paced and competitive real estate market, agents must understand the wants and needs of their clients. A successful agent knows that meeting the expectations of home sellers can make all the difference in securing a listing and closing a deal. As a result, agents must put their clients' priorities at the forefront of their business strategies. This article discusses the key factors that home sellers are looking for in an agent and how obtaining a real estate license from a reputable real estate license school can help you meet these expectations.

Assist in Competitive Pricing

Pricing a property accurately is critical in ensuring a quick sale and the best possible return on investment for the seller. Home sellers want an agent who can use their expertise and local market knowledge to determine the appropriate price point for their property. This involves analyzing comparable properties in the area, understanding current market trends, and accounting for any unique features or upgrades the home may have.

One of the most crucial aspects of a real estate agent's job is helping sellers determine the appropriate listing price for their property. This requires a deep understanding of the local market, comparable properties, and the unique features of the home in question. By guiding sellers toward a realistic and competitive listing price, agents can optimize the chances of a successful sale and maximize the seller's return on investment.

To begin, real estate agents, should conduct a comprehensive Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) to evaluate similar properties in the area that have recently sold, are currently on the market, or were withdrawn from the market without being sold. This analysis allows the agent to identify trends, gauge the competition, and determine the property's fair market value. By presenting this information to the seller, agents can help them understand how their home compares to others in the market and why a specific price range is recommended.

In addition to the CMA, agents should also consider the property's unique features, upgrades, and condition when recommending a listing price. Factors such as a recently renovated kitchen, a well-maintained garden, or energy-efficient upgrades can add value to a home and justify a higher asking price. Conversely, outdated appliances, necessary repairs, or an undesirable location may warrant a lower price. By discussing these factors with the seller, agents can help them grasp the impact of their property's specific characteristics on the listing price.

Completing a comprehensive real estate course online can help future agents develop the skills and knowledge needed to price properties accurately and communicate their findings effectively to sellers.

Market to Interested Buyers

Strategic marketing is essential in attracting the right buyers and generating interest in a property. Home sellers want an agent to showcase their property through various channels, including online listings, social media, and print advertising. A well-rounded marketing plan should include professional photography, engaging property descriptions, and targeted exposure to potential buyers.

A quality real estate license school will offer courses covering marketing strategies and techniques, enabling agents to promote their listings and generate interest from potential buyers effectively.

Determine Price-Boosting Improvements

Home sellers are often interested in making improvements that will increase their property's value. A knowledgeable agent can recommend high-ROI repair projects and renovations that will significantly impact the final sale price. Some examples of valuable improvements include:

Kitchen Remodel:

A minor kitchen remodel can yield a significant return on investment (ROI). According to the 2021 Cost vs. Value Report by Remodeling Magazine, homeowners can expect to recoup approximately 72% of the cost of a minor kitchen remodel. A minor kitchen remodel may include updating cabinet doors and drawer fronts, installing new countertops, and updating fixtures and hardware. The report also notes that an updated kitchen is one of the most important factors for homebuyers when considering a property.

Source: Remodeling Magazine - 2021 Cost vs. Value Report

Adding a Wood Deck:

Adding a wood deck to your home can increase its appeal to potential buyers and provide a good ROI. The 2021 Cost vs. Value Report states that homeowners can expect to recoup around 66% of the cost of a wood deck addition. A deck expands your home's living space and enhances its outdoor appeal, making it more attractive to potential buyers.

Source: Remodeling Magazine - 2021 Cost vs. Value Report

Updating the Entry Door:

Replacing your entry door with a new steel door can significantly improve your home's curb appeal and security while providing a high ROI. According to the 2021 Cost vs. Value Report, homeowners can expect to recoup about 65% of the steel entry door replacement cost. An attractive, secure front door can create a strong first impression on potential buyers and increase your home's overall value.

Source: Remodeling Magazine - 2021 Cost vs. Value Report

Remember that these projects' actual return on investment can vary depending on your specific location and market conditions. It's always a good idea to consult with a local real estate professional for tailored advice on the best improvements for your home.

Safeguard with Technology

In today's digital age, technology plays a significant role in protecting both agents and their clients during real estate transactions. Home sellers want an agent who can use cutting-edge technology to streamline the process and mitigate future risks, particularly regarding property disclosures. A complete or correct disclosure package can help avoid legal and financial troubles for sellers, even after closing the deal.

Reputable real estate license schools will offer courses that cover the use of technology in real estate transactions, ensuring that agents are well-versed in using digital tools to protect their clients and themselves.

Responsiveness and Advocacy

Home sellers expect their agent to be available and responsive to their needs. In the age of instant communication, clients want to know that their agent is just a phone call, text, or email away. Agents who are prompt and attentive to their client's needs can foster trust and build long-lasting relationships.

A quality real estate online course will emphasize the importance of effective communication and guide on maintaining client responsiveness.

Home sellers want an agent to advocate for their best interests throughout the transaction. This includes being honest about the property's value, representing only one party in a transaction, and disclosing potential conflicts of interest. Agents who prioritize their clients' needs and work diligently to secure the best possible outcome are more likely to earn repeat business and referrals.

Advocacy, in the context of real estate, refers to actively supporting, promoting, and defending the best interests of one's client while buying or selling a property. It involves providing expert advice, guidance, and representation to ensure the client's needs, preferences, and goals are met or exceeded in a transaction. Advocacy is a hallmark of real estate representation because it underscores the fundamental duties of a real estate agent and exemplifies their commitment to their client's success.

Here are a few reasons why advocacy is considered a hallmark of real estate representation:

1. Fiduciary responsibility: A real estate agent has a fiduciary duty to their client. This means that the agent must put the client's interests above their own and act with honesty, loyalty, and good faith. Advocacy is essential to fulfilling this fiduciary duty, as it demonstrates that the agent prioritizes their client's well-being in every aspect of the transaction.

2. Expertise and knowledge: A real estate agent's extensive knowledge of the market, property values, legal requirements, and negotiation strategies is critical to effectively advocating for their client. By leveraging this expertise, agents can provide valuable insights and advice to help their clients make informed decisions and achieve the best possible outcome in a transaction.

3. Negotiation skills: One of the most important aspects of advocacy in real estate is the ability to negotiate effectively on behalf of a client. A skilled negotiator can help secure favorable terms, such as a lower purchase or higher sale price, and ensure the client's interests are protected throughout the negotiation process.

4. Communication and problem-solving: Advocacy in real estate also involves maintaining open lines of communication with the client, as well as addressing any concerns, issues, or obstacles that may arise during the transaction. By actively listening to the client's needs and working diligently to find solutions, a real estate agent demonstrates their commitment to advocacy and exceptional client service.

5. Ethical conduct: A real estate agent's dedication to advocacy goes hand in hand with adhering to a strict code of ethics. This commitment to ethical behavior ensures that the agent will not only prioritize their client's interests but will also act fairly, honestly, and transparently throughout the process.

Advocacy is a cornerstone of real estate representation because it embodies the fundamental principles and responsibilities that agents must uphold to serve their clients effectively. Real estate agents can help clients navigate the complex world of property transactions by acting as a steadfast advocate, ensuring a successful and satisfying outcome.

In conclusion, understanding what home sellers genuinely want from their real estate agent is paramount in establishing a successful relationship and ensuring a positive outcome for both parties. By assisting with competitive pricing, strategic marketing, recommending price-boosting improvements, utilizing technology, and maintaining a strong sense of responsiveness and advocacy, agents can effectively meet the needs of their clients. Pursuing a real estate license from a reputable real estate license school and taking real estate courses online can equip agents with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in these areas, ultimately leading to satisfied clients, successful transactions, and a thriving real estate career. By prioritizing the wants and needs of home sellers, agents can build long-lasting relationships, foster trust, and make a lasting impact on the lives of their clients.

As always, if you are interested in taking real estate license courses with our school, please reach out at www.adhischools.com or call us at 8887685285.

Love,

Kartik