Christopher's Hemet CA Real Estate Blog - Mission Grove Realty: March 2007

Real Estate Guides Courtesy of Mission Grove Realty - Hemet, California

It seems to be industry standard to focus on Price and location. Most agents will rarely step outside of these 2 factors when listing a property other than to add that they will be listing in the MLS, which is more often than not, the extent of their marketing efforts. Most agents who actively participate in the Active Rain Community are an exception to this. Reality is that, although location and price are of concern, there are other factors that will make or break your property selling goals.

Thinking that XYZ agency will be your best choice? Think again. Many will choose an agent soley based on their affiliation with a "Big Name" agency. When was the last time you heard someone say that they bought an "XYZ agency" property? Have you ever heard that from anyone?   People sell homes, agencies do not. Choosing an agent solely based on agency affiliation may leave you wondering whay your neighbors home has sold and yours is still setting on the market. Most agents are responsible for the marketing of the properties they represent. The agency they work with  will rarly, if ever, assist in the marketing of your property.  It is up to your agent to market your property and get results.  

We believe that there are 4 factors that affect the sale of a home:

1. Marketing
2. Attitude
3. Location
4. Price

Here is why:

MARKETING - The marketing of any property is the most important aspect of selling a home in any market. Without proper and extensive marketing, no one will see your property. If they can not see it, they will not buy it. Plain and simple. You want to have the most exposure possible. Without it, nothing else matters. The MLS is a start yet, should NEVER stop there. 80% of protential buyers look to the web for their next home....How is yours going to look? Do not simply take an agents word that they will market your property online...INSPECT WHAT YOU EXPECT. An easy way to check is to simply type your property address in your web browser. Does it appear? How many times? If it does not appear or....the marketing that does appear does not do your property justice, get with your agent and find out why. A professional will not make excuses yet, will correct any error right away and be happy to correct any error. The web is a powerful tool. Do you want to loose out on nearly 80% or more of the market?

ATTITUDE - Do you really WANT to sell? Does your agent really want to sell your property? Are you ready to sell? Do you, and your agent, believe it? If you are not ready  to sell, your property wont sell except in the hottest of markets. If your agent is not convinced that your property will sell....the same holds true. Wait until you are mentally ready to sell before listing any property. When a prospective buyer, or thier agent calls, are you ready? When they make a last minute call to view your property, do you treat them as if they were a lond lost friend or an intruder? Does your agent welcome agents from out of their market area or treat them as a foe?  Your enthusiasm, or lack thereof... and that of your agents will show and will have a profound impact. A positive attitude does wonder.  You have only one chance to make a great impression...Make sure you, and your agent, are ready!

LOCATION and PRICE - This is what the average agent seems to dwell on entirely. Sure, they are important factors yet, without the first 2, you are typically left dead in the water!  We have seen many a property sell in short order where proper marketing and attitude have produced excellent results. Combine all 4 of these factors and you will be amazed at the results.  Location and price do play an important role. One of which can be changed...the other can not. Make sure that your agent has a thorough understanding of the area you are selling in. In most cases, a property must appraise at, or very near, the selling price unless it is an all cash offer without contingencies(Pretty Rare). If your agent has knowledge and experience in your area, he or she will be able to provide an appraiser with the data needed.

If you would like more information about marketing properties in Southern California, call us anytime. Our knowledgeable staff  are always available to provide up to date market information and property analysis without obligation. Looking for advice outside of Southern California? Find someone right here on Active Rain.