prices, the average per-square-foot cost of similar homes, median and average sales prices, average number of days on market, sale price history, etc., are important factors that affect home sales but are not readily available to the average homeseller. This can be significant. For example, you may believe that a house down the street was listed and sold for $800,000, but a professional real estate agent will know the home had several upgrades and closed for only $775,000 with $10,000 in seller concessions. Obviously, this type of insider information can have a substantial impact when determining the true market value of your home. Having a real estate agent represent you has additional benefits. While the home is on the market, an agent can field scheduling calls, arrange showings at your convenience, and handle follow- up questions. Also, because good real estate agents network with various contractors and professionals, they are perfectly situated to provide references and to offer advice regarding a service provider’s reputation and qualifications. More importantly, unlike buyers and sellers, most agents are trained to distance themselves from the emotional side of a transaction. During negotiations an agent can act as a buffer between seller and buyer, keeping the transaction professional and “at arm’s length”. Good agents are not simply go-between messengers who deliver a buyer’s offer to a seller and carry counteroffers back and forth. They are professionals who advise their clients regarding options and consequences, then present their clients' case in the best light.
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