The real estate agent can be a buffer between seller and buyer, keeping the transaction professional and “at arm’s length.” This is important in the negotiations phase, when emotions are liable to be at their highest. The real estate agent can further filter all those phone calls that lead to nowhere, including bargain hunters and real estate shoppers. Having a real estate agent available when the home is being shown is a distinct advantage for a few reasons. The agent will field the scheduling calls, arranging them for the seller’s convenience. The agent will show the home, saving that seller time, and also field the follow-up questions. In short, having an agent will lessen the seller’s investment of time and bother, while inciting serious buyers to immediately write an offer.
SERIOUS CONSIDERATIONS
The decision to sell your home requires seeing the total picture, from start to finish. You should now understand what is involved in selling your home quickly and profitably. However, let me summarize a bit about what you should consider to avoid trouble in the process. To eliminate any misunderstandings by you, your agent, or an interested buyer, discuss this list with your trusted agent. • Selling your home before you are qualified to buy another — Financial situations change, along with loan requirements. • Guessing your mortgage payoff — Know if penalties exist. • Underestimation of closing costs — Calculate fees, taxes, and commissions that need to be paid. • Spending earnest money — If the sale falls through, what 63
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