Northern Michigan Real Estate

Only a real estate professional who belongs to the National Association of Realtors may call himself or herself a Realtor. A Realtor is bound by a Code of Ethics and pledged to protect and promote the interest of the seller by providing fair treatment for all parties involved in the real estate transaction. Here are some of the ways a Realtor can help you sell your home:

•    A Realtor is knowledgeable of the market and gives you instant exposure to the

             maximum number of buyers.

•  A Realtor can assist in "pre-qualifying" prospects as to their affordable price range and housing needs.

•  A Realtor knows current real estate values and can help you set a realistic,

           competitive price for your home. They are skilled professionals and they know how 

           to market your home efficiently and effectively.

• A Realtor can figure the net proceeds from your sale, taking into account your

          outstanding loan balance, closing costs and possible creative owner financing.

• A Realtor can tap into a large market of potential buyers through referrals and

          professional marketing techniques.

• A Realtor can free you from the problems associated with showing your home,

          handling phone inquiries, appointments, showings and negotiations of the contract.

          Your home will only be shown to serious, qualified buyers.

• A Realtor maintains objectivity in presenting offers and counter-offers.

• A Realtor assumes liability by maintaining errors and omissions

          and malpractice insurance.

• A Realtor is a professional and may be able to get the job done in less time than you. 

The information provided about what a Realtor can do for you was not designed to scare you into listing your home. Really! It is simply pointing out that when you use an agent, a good agent, you DO get something valuable for the money you pay them in the form of a sales commission.

THIS DOES NOT MEAN YOU CANNOT SELL YOUR HOME ON YOUR OWN!

 However, your time and stress are also important to consider and all sides of the FSBO question need to be discussed. Remember, only a fool works for nothing and if you do sell on your own, you will earn the money by hard work and persistence.

 Only you can decide whether or not the stress of selling your own home is worth the savings to you. If you want to do it... Just do it!

 A COMPROMISE MAY BE THE ANSWER!

  Maybe you should set a time limit on your FSBO activities. Try it for a month or so and if you aren't getting the response you want, reconsider listing your home with a professional Realtor. Maybe you set the limit for two months. Whatever you decide, at least you will know that you gave it a chance and you'll know if you were able to do it or not. Be realistic on the time limit. If you are in a rush to sell, make the limit shorter. If you are in no hurry, make the time limit longer.

 If you sell on your own, great! If you don't, it's not a problem. You can always hire a Realtor at any time. Either way, Good Luck.