Why Use a Realtor When Selling Your Home

real estate agent
Article by: Realtor.com Team
Selling a house can be a complex process. A Realtor can help you at every stage, from setting a price to marketing the property to closing the sale.

Setting the Price The selling process generally begins with a determination of a reasonable asking price. Your real estate agent or Realtor can give you up-to-date information on what is happening in your local marketplace, as well as the price, financing, terms and condition of competing properties. These are key factors in marketing your home and selling it at the best price. Often, your agent can recommend repairs or cosmetic work that will significantly enhance the salability of the property.

Marketing The next step is a marketing plan. Marketing exposes your property to the public as well as to other real estate agents through a Multiple Listing Service, other cooperative marketing networks, open houses for agents, and so on. In many markets, a substantial portion of real estate sales are cooperative sales; that is, a real estate agent other than yours brings in the buyer. The Realtor Code of Ethics requires Realtors to use these cooperative relationships when they benefit clients.

An agent will also know when, where and how to advertise — which medium, format and frequency will work best for your home and your market. Though advertising can be valuable, the notion that advertising sells real estate is a misconception. National Association of Realtors studies show that 82 percent of real estate sales are the result of agent contacts from previous clients, referrals, friends, family and personal contacts. (Read More Here)

Existing-home sales hit highest level in 6 1/2 years

improving market

Teke Wiggin: Staff Writer for Inman

Existing-home sales hit their highest level in 6 1/2 years in August, as fast-rising mortgage rates pushed buyers to close deals, the National Association of Realtors (NAR) reported today.

Existing-home sales rose 1.7 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 5.48 million in August from 5.39 million in July, and were up 13.2 percent annually, according to NAR.

“Rising mortgage interest rates pushed more buyers to close deals, but monthly sales are likely to be uneven in the months ahead from several market frictions,” said NAR Chief Economist Lawrence Yun. “Tight inventory is limiting choices in many areas, higher mortgage interest rates mean affordability isn’t as favorable as it was, and restrictive mortgage lending standards are keeping some otherwise qualified buyers from completing a purchase.”

Existing-home inventory at the end of August increased 0.4  percent to 2.25 million homes, representing a 4.9-month supply of homes at the current rate of home sales, NAR said.

That’s down from a five-month supply in July and a six-month supply a year before, the trade group said.

 

Waterfront Acreage on Lake Martin Available

highway 34 waterfront property lake martin

Lake Martin, the largest lake in Alabama, is largely responsible for the unrivaled quality of life here and is an enormous economic engine. With 44,000 acres of sparkling blue water and more than 750 miles of pristine shoreline, it is home to more than just lakefront residences. Morning mist rises to reveal waking wildlife—graceful blue herons glide across the water teeming with a variety of fish from bream and crappie to large-mouth bass. The happy laughter of children rings out across the lake in the afternoon as pontoons and boats float past. At dusk, the lake comes alive in the blaze of the setting sun, providing a stunning backdrop for moonlight cruises. Here, the water is so clear you’re tempted to drink it. The lake is a vibrant center of activity and serves as the ideal backdrop for a variety of pursuits away from the water.

198+/- acres with 1600+/- Ft of water front on Lake Martin. Unrestricted with creek.

Contact Fuller Realty:

Don Fuller: 256.675.0068
Edie Fuller: 256.675.0068

250 Tanglewood Lane in StillWaters Development

250 tanglewood lane stillwaters development

Over $500,000 below previous listing’s price in 2011. Updates completed just a few years ago!! Gated community. Covered boat slip with TWO lifts. Storage in walk-in attic as well as 5 car garage with work shop. Pre-approval and proof of funds required for financing offers. Proof of funds required for cash offers. Pictures ar for illustration purposes only. Home is sold unfurnished and AS-IS.