What does a list agent do?
Real estate transactions rarely linear, and it’s the seasoned agent’s ability to handle the unexpected and navigate complexities that truly sets them apart. Here are some additional tasks and considerations that experienced agents often handle during a transaction:
- Market Analysis and Pricing Strategy: Before listing a property, agents conduct a thorough market analysis to determine the optimal listing price. This involves evaluating comparable sales, current market trends, and the property’s unique features.
- Property Preparation: Agents may provide guidance on preparing the property for sale, including staging recommendations, minor repairs or renovations, and enhancing curb appeal to attract potential buyers.
- Marketing and Promotion: In addition to listing the property on the MLS (Multiple Listing Service), agents employ various marketing strategies to maximize exposure, such as professional photography, virtual tours, social media promotion, and targeted advertising campaigns.
- Buyer Qualification: Agents work to ensure that potential buyers are qualified and financially capable of completing the transaction.
- Offer Negotiation: Negotiating the terms of the offer is a critical skill that agents bring to the table. They advocate for their clients best interests while striving to achieve mutually acceptable terms with the other party.
- Contract Management: Throughout the transaction, agents manage the paperwork and documentation associated with the purchase agreement, ensuring that all parties fulfill their contractual obligations and deadlines are met.
- Problem Resolution: When issues arise during the transaction, such as appraisal discrepancies, inspection findings, or title issues, agents work to find solutions and keep the transaction on track.
- Client Advocacy: Above all, agents serve as advocates for their clients, providing guidance, support, and expert advice every step of the way. They prioritize their clients’ interests and work tirelessly to ensure a successful outcome.
In essence, experienced agents wear many hats throughout the transaction, acting as advisors, negotiators, problem solvers, and advocates for their clients. Their knowledge, expertise, and proactive approach are invaluable assets in navigating the complexities of real estate transactions and achieving successful outcomes.
I am going on my twentieth year in real estate acting as both a sellers agent and buyers agent, respectfully. I can certainly say that I have seen a lot, but I dare to say that I have seen it all. As I said in the beginning of this post, real estate transactions are not always linear. There are so many factors that can cause detours in the process. I pride myself on being able to pivot in situations that are out of the norm and bring everyone back on track. A bonus of being “seasoned” is that I have worked with many local lenders and agents throughout my career, therefore, ironing out some of the wrinkles that may occur is easier with the familiarity aspect on the other side of the transaction (ie. buyers agents).