Selling a home is a complex process, and one of the largest transactions you’ll make in your lifetime.  You may be tempted to save money and sell your home on your own, but it could wind up costing you more if you don’t have the experience and knowledge to manage all of the financial and legal requirements involved in completing the sale.  By selecting an experienced agent to represent you, you can save yourself considerable time and money, with the added peace of mind of knowing that the agent will work to get the best deal possible for you.  We’ve developed this helpful guide to answer all of your questions on choosing an agent to help you sell your home quickly and at the price you want.

What is an Agent?
An agent is a licensed real estate professional with the experience and knowledge to help you sell your home.  In Nova Scotia, agents are licensed REALTORS® and members of the Nova Scotia Association of Realtors (NSAR) and the Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA) - all bound by a code of ethics that ensures you the highest level of integrity and honesty. 

How do I select an agent?
Like any major decision you make, it pays to do your homework before making your selection.  Start by asking friends, family or business colleagues who they would recommend, or make a list of names based on ‘for sale’ signs in your community, or advertisements in your paper and local real estate cable channel.  Once you’ve identified two or three candidates, interview them to find out how they will help you to successfully sell your house.

How will I know which agent to choose?
Look for an agent who:

• Makes you feel comfortable
• Is enthusiastic and knowledgeable about their work
• Focuses on your best interests
• Has a strong track record of results in home sales in your neighbourhood
• Knows the current real estate market
• Looks and acts professional. 

The best way to decide is to ask for a resume, references and interview them to find out more about their experience and capabilities.

What are some good questions to ask when choosing an agent?
Here is a list of questions you should ask potential candidates before you select an agent:

• How long have you/your firm been in business?
• What kind of training have you had?
• How many homes have you sold in the last six months?
• How close were the sale prices to the asking prices?
• What price range of homes do you generally handle?
• Do you provide multiple listings of properties through the Multiple Listing Service (MLS)?  (This service provides access to a much broader base of potential buyers.)
• What services will you provide to help me sell my house?
• How will you market my property?
• Will the marketing plan include an open house for other Agents and regular open houses for prospective buyers, advertising and Internet exposure?
• How would you determine the selling price for this home?
• Will you compare this home to those sold recently in the neighbourhood and to those currently on sale? 
• What tips and hints can you offer to make my home show better?
• What will your services cost me?

How the agent answers your questions will go a long way to confirming that they are the right person to sell your home.  Be sure to check their references, and talk to people who have recently sold or purchased property through them; if clients had a positive experience, they will be happy to share it.  And remember when it comes to experience, a relatively new agent will be able to draw on the resources and knowledge of their company to serve you, so consider that in making your decision.