Homeowners who choose the “for sale by owner” method of selling their homes, rather than hiring a listing Realtor, may be “leaving money on the table.” Berkshire Hathaway Broker Henri Gourd explains:

“There are many reasons to use a real estate agent to sell your home. It will get wide exposure through MLS and brokerage websites; publicity will be paid for by the listing agent, and the seller will only have to compensate an agent for their services when/if a transaction closes. Prior to listing, the agent will collect market data to determine an optimal listing price and ensure that all state and federally mandated disclosure forms have been properly filled out and filed. They’ll coordinate showings, and collect feedback from buyers. One of a listing agent’s important roles is to take the emotion out of the negotiation process. While a seller might be insulted by a low offer and react by shutting down, a good agent will probe to understand the offer and see if there’s an opportunity to negotiate. Studies show that using a Realtor will actually generate a higher sales price than selling your home on your own.”

Have a question for a local Realtor? Ask it here: welcomehome@theday.com

Henri Gourd, Broker Associate

Berkshire Hathaway Home Services

New England Properties

Mobile: (914) 954-3897

henrigourd@bhhsne.com