Ask Phyllis: a blog series of frequently asked real estate questions. Email us here
Is My Realtor Doing a Good Job?
Dear Phyllis,
We have had our home listed for a couple of months with only one low-ball offer. I read in your column that it’s a seller’s market but not for my house. It seems that every home but mine has a sold sign! I am now beginning to think my Realtor is not doing a good job. He didn’t mention to me anything to do before we listed my home, and now he is giving me supposed feedback from showings –the landscape is not up to par, the condition of the pool is a problem, and buyers are complaining about the kitchen countertops. How do I tell if my Realtor is doing a good job? What things should I check? Frustrated
Dear Frustrated,
It’s not that hard to determine if your Realtor is doing a good job. Your first showing is on the Internet; check your listing in Realtor.com. Are there high-quality pictures? Is the ad copy compelling? Is your agent providing you with weekly feedback on showings and where your home is advertised?
Without knowing all of the details, I can only speculate about the underlying issue. However, my initial thought is that the landscaping and pool may be creating a negative first impression, as both are highly visible features that buyers notice immediately. Fortunately, it typically does not cost a great deal to have a gardener or landscaper improve your home’s curb appeal. For example, neatly trimming shrubs, refreshing planting beds, and adding a few colorful flowers can make a significant difference.
Additionally, what specifically is the issue with the pool? If possible, you may want to address that problem now rather than later. After all, a clean, sparkling pool is an attractive selling feature, particularly as we move into the summer months. As a result, investing in these improvements could help your home make a stronger first impression and attract more buyer interest.
Next, you need to have a meeting with your agent. You both need to regroup. Ask him if you should take your home off the market for a short period so that you can properly prepare it for sale. Ask your Realtor to update you on what is currently listed for sale (your competition), what has just entered escrow, and the prices of homes recently sold – how does your home compare?
It is your real estate agent’s job to recommend a list price, and to prepare a marketing plan to get your home sold. If you don’t believe he is doing a good job, set up a meeting with his manager or broker. Remember, your real estate agent and his brokerage are working for you.
I wish you success in getting a sold sign in your front lawn.
