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8 Key Questions to Ask a Realtor When Selling a Home

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Property investments are not only a stable way to hedge against inflation, but they can also deliver a high ROI. If you invest in real estate that’s priced well below the current market price, you will see the highest returns. Then when you’re ready to sell, qualified realtors in Tempe, AZ can help you find a buyer who will buy your home faster and for more money. Don’t know where to start? When you first meet with Arizona real estate professionals, ask them these eight questions to get a sense of what you can expect from the process.

Question 1: What are your recommendations?

When embarking on the sale of your home, it is advisable to engage the services of at least one state-licensed agent from a reputable local real estate company. It is essential that the agent has access to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) to comprehensively list your property and attract potential buyers for a swift and profitable sale. Additionally, look for an agent who is a member of the National Association of Realtors, as it signifies additional training and adherence to the real estate code of ethics. You can find information on Arizona realtors by consulting the Arizona realtors list.

Question 2: How many sales did you make last year?

While experience alone does not guarantee a quick sale, it is beneficial to work with an agent who has experience dealing with both buyers and sellers. This ensures that they possess the necessary expertise to successfully and profitably sell your property in the Arizona market. Inquire about the number of clients they have worked with in the past and the price range of the homes they have sold. Ideally, you want a qualified professional who understands what properties are valued by buyers within the appropriate income bracket. Consider asking for references from previous clients for further insight.

Question 3: Are you an expert in this field?

Having a knowledgeable expert by your side is crucial for sellers. Local agents have valuable insights into upcoming developments in the area, as well as plans for shops and other infrastructure that may impact property values, sales velocity, and potential prices. Additionally, inquire about what features and characteristics local buyers prioritize when seeking real estate. It can be helpful to ask the agent about their favorite aspects of the neighborhood. A competent real estate agent should be able to market not only your home but also the surrounding community.

Question 4: How are current bid prices determined?

Reaching an agreement on the final price of your home or property in Arizona is one of the most important considerations for a seller. Your real estate agent should have the ability to accurately assess the market price in the local area. Overpricing a property may deter potential buyers, whereas underpricing could negatively impact the seller’s expected returns. Ensure that your agent possesses a comprehensive understanding of the local real estate market and recent sales of comparable properties. Seek clarity on how the final pricing process works and address any questions you may have.

Question 5: What is your orocess with clients?

It is crucial to ask various questions as each scenario has distinct advantages and disadvantages for sellers. Different agents may engage with clients in varying ways, so understanding their approach will help you determine compatibility and ensure effective collaboration.

Question 6: How much exactly will my house cost to sell?

Inquire about the associated costs such as agency fees and closing costs when participating in a real estate transaction. Assess these expenses and compare them with other agents and their services. All these aspects should be clearly outlined in a valid legal contract of sale established with the real estate agent.

Question 7: What is your sales plan?

A qualified agent should provide you with a written plan outlining how they intend to sell your home. This plan should include a comprehensive marketing strategy to attract potential buyers, encompassing listing amenities, organizing open houses, and leveraging real estate advertisements on social media platforms. A well-executed sales plan increases the likelihood of achieving a higher selling price

Question 8: How should we prepare the house?

Seek advice from an experienced agent regarding necessary repairs and upgrades that will enhance the appeal of your home to buyers. They can offer suggestions for cost-effective improvements that yield positive results. Inquire if the agent provides repair services or if they can recommend reliable professionals. Discuss scheduling arrangements to ensure the agent can accommodate your preferences regarding days and times for showing the home.

Investment risks

Like any investment, there are risks involved, particularly when buying real estate with credit. These risks include the potential impact of rising interest rates and declining rental income, which can place an additional burden on the family budget.

Another risk, as evidenced during the pandemic in 2020, is the potential for lower rental prices and decreased demand for rental housing. The fluctuating restrictions and changes brought about by the pandemic have created instability in the real estate market. In numerous cities, rental rates have decreased as many employees transitioned to remote work, leading to an increase in vacancy rates. However, it’s important to note that despite these challenges, residential real estate prices continue to rise. This means that the appreciation in home values can still make the investment profitable, even in the absence of a consistent rental income.

Short-term rentals

If you are contemplating real estate investment, exploring short-term rental properties can be a promising option. This particular investment strategy has gained popularity, particularly for apartments situated in prime city centers that attract a steady flow of tourists. Travelers often favor the comfort and convenience of apartments or houses over traditional hotels. However, it is crucial to note that investing in short-term rentals requires a greater time commitment from you as the owner. Additionally, it is essential to allocate sufficient funds for ongoing maintenance costs.

By conducting thorough calculations and selecting an attractive location with a high demand for such properties, this investment approach often yields a significantly higher return compared to renting out the same property for longer periods. The dynamic nature of short-term rentals, combined with favorable market conditions, can contribute to an enhanced financial outcome for investors willing to dedicate the necessary time and resources to manage these properties effectively.

Long-term rentals

Investing in real estate primarily involves long-term rentals, which is a highly popular and profitable approach, yielding a minimum annual return of 5–6%. Optimal locations in major cities often offer even higher returns. Furthermore, the value of the property tends to appreciate over time, making the investment significantly more lucrative in the long run.

Renovations

Often, run-down apartments in need of updates may not be popular among those seeking immediate housing solutions. However, these residential properties hold great potential for active development and are highly attractive to investors who can envision their value appreciation. There are various key strategies to enhance the value of such properties, with home renovations being the most common approach. Through these renovations, a dilapidated property can be transformed into a charming home, ready to emerge from its previous state of disrepair. Time plays a critical role in such investments, as even a slight delay in selling a renovated home can diminish the return on investment. Therefore, it is important to act swiftly and seize opportunities. By signing a contract and receiving payment promptly, you can maximise your financial gains from this type of investment.

Commercial real estate investments

Investing in commercial real estate in 2023 can be highly lucrative, particularly in the rental of office spaces or services to businesses. These types of investments often yield higher returns compared to residential real estate and require less time and commitment to manage. It’s important to consider that the current economic conditions play a crucial role in determining demand and prices.

In the current period of economic growth, there is an increasing interest in office spaces and services, which positively impacts profitability. However, it’s essential to acknowledge that economic conditions are cyclical, and periods of recession can result in reduced interest in renting business premises, leading to a significant decrease in income.

While investments in commercial real estate can be highly profitable, it’s important to be mindful of the potential fluctuations in demand and income that may occur during economic downturns. It’s advisable to carefully analyze market conditions and trends before making investment decisions in this sector.


Adam Mulligan, a psychology graduate from the University of Hertfordshire, has a keen interest in the fields of mental health, wellness, and lifestyle.

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