What to Expect From a Listing Agent

 

You already know that the best way to sell your home, and for the most profit, is to hire a listing agent. The fact is that people who sell using a real estate agent make more profit and have a smoother transaction than those who try to do it themselves. Yet often consumers don’t know everything the listing agent does. Listing a home properly entails so much more than putting a lockbox on the front door and slapping a sign in the yard. 

The listing agent is your advocate and partner in the selling process. They help guide you through the transaction, negotiate on your behalf, and work with the buyers’ agents to get you the best deal possible. A good listing agent will provide you with regular updates and input from showings. The most important thing is to discuss and set expectations at the beginning. 

Some sellers ask that their agent attend all showings. This is typical with luxury properties, for example. But often they do most of their work behind the scenes, encouraging offers, negotiating counter offers, working with lenders and appraisers, handling loose ends and hiccups. 

Once in a while, things don’t go well. The partnership becomes difficult or impossible. Since almost all listings involve a reasonable time limit, you may feel trapped or hopeless that there is a solution. In this case, you do have options. First, if your agent works for a brokerage, call the managing broker who can mediate, or if necessary, reassign your listing if needed. 

Your agent is your partner. Be honest and open with your needs and expectations. In this way, you can work together to sell your home quickly and for the best price and terms possible.

Change the Feel of Your Room for $500 or Less Using Rugs

 Everyone is looking for easy ways to spruce up their home. As spring approaches, those warm, cozy rooms that were so inviting in the cold can look cluttered and dark. If redecorating every season isn’t in your budget – and how many people can – then consider adding or changing a rug or two for big impact and often less than $500. 

Rugs have the ability to transform the look and feel of a room, adding interest, style, and personality. These decorative elements can be easily changed, stored, or removed as the season or mood determines. Imagine a bright blue area rug in the kids’ room or a soft-toned Kilim added to the family room. Experiment with color, size, and texture which can change the atmosphere of the space in a few short minutes. 

Rugs can also change the feel of the room by defining different areas. Modern floor plans boast big open spaces, so adding a rug under the sofa can distinguish it from the dining area, as an example. Different colors and patterns will affect the energy of the room as well. Bedrooms would benefit from the calming tone-on-tone of a neutral hue while a busy kitchen might be enhanced with a pop of bright yellow or red near the sink. 

Big box home stores and local marketplaces are filled with rugs of all sizes and colors. Even the larger area rugs can cost less than $500. Changing or adding a rug is a great way to change the look and feel of any room, updating or elevating the atmosphere and sense of home.