Selling Success: Why the Majority of Homeowners Choose Real Estate Agents

by Rose Morrison

In an unpredictable market, selling your home solo without an agent brings too many risks. You could misunderstand the industry environment, not find the right buyer or leave your property on the market for too long. Connecting with real estate agents can give you an edge and simplify the process.

Real estate agent on the phone, looking at the window

The New Orleans Home Buying Landscape

New Orleans is rated as one of the best and most interesting places to live. But with a thriving community and coveted place to stay come some challenges, and it’s best to have a pro in your corner. Some view NOLA as having the hardest real estate market in the U.S.

With the buzz around the market and fear about what the right move is for now, it’s understandable for home sellers to worry about whether their property will attract a buyer.

A quaint, quintessential house in New Orleans.

The Benefits of Choosing Real Estate Agents

Working with real estate agents is an investment that can save you time and energy and give you peace of mind while selling your house to someone new. Check out this breakdown of the benefits.

1. Expert Knowledge of the New Orleans Market

Connecting with a real estate agent means accessing a gold mine of information about the New Orleans scene. Professionals have access to the latest resource materials, such as NOLA neighborhood property reports and community calendars, to navigate the market.

You can seek assistance figuring out the timeline for selling your home and marketing it to the community. This knowledge is invaluable, whether you’re a local, generally unfamiliar with the area or a long-time veteran.

2. Navigating Complex Transactions and Regulations

Selling a home can be a complex process that involves many documents. Permits, disclosures, contracts and titles can be exhausting to deal with. Plus, even the slightest mistake can either lose you a buyer or create extra expenses.

Having a real estate agent minimizes the chances of those errors, since they’ve already gone through countless transactions with the same paperwork. You can delegate them to handle documentation or simply ask for assistance for a more hands-on selling experience.

3. Access to Exclusive Networks

If you’re putting up your property listing yourself, you’re starting the search for prospects from scratch. Connecting with a real estate agent propels you forward since they likely have a network of homebuyers and investors to connect with.

Real estate agents also know professionals who can help your listing take off. For example, agents know how curb appeal contributes to home value, so you can contact inspectors to gauge the prices. From there, renovation teams will improve your property’s state for a higher price.

4. Skilled Negotiation and Pricing Strategies

As a home seller, you want the best deal possible for your property. However, it can be hard to pinpoint the starting price. Real estate agents can use their knowledge to put a reasonable price tag on your property and employ strategies to make it more attractive.

If you easily cave in negotiating with potential buyers and fear your house getting undervalued, call in a real estate agent. They are experienced enough to deal with these people to get your money’s worth and potentially more.

5. Faster Turnaround and Reduced Stress

Home-selling is a long and tedious process, especially with the fluctuating real estate market in New Orleans. You can delegate many tasks to your real estate agent and rest easy knowing they can competently sell your property.

Plus, there’s a chance that your real estate agent can sell your property faster. After all, they’re more familiar with the process and potential buyer pool.

Meeting between a seller and an agent

Tips for Choosing a Real Estate Agent

Acquiring a real estate agent makes home selling more successful. However, it only works if you find the right person. Use these tips to connect with someone you’re aligned with.

1. Seek Communicative Professionals

Prioritize looking for a real estate agent who is open and transparent with you. They should be able to answer your questions about the selling process and give you reassurance when you worry. You can gauge these professionals' communication skills by interviewing them and checking their overall demeanor.

2. Tap Into Referrals

Consider asking friends and family for real estate agents they’ve had good experiences with and achieved results with. This strategy is quite common, and about 38% of sellers hired their experts through referrals. Also, 28% of them reconnect with an agent they had previously worked with to buy or sell a home.

3. Avoid Rushing and Practice Due Diligence

Home sellers may be keen on getting the first real estate agent available as soon as possible. However, it’s better to be wise with whom you choose. Check their background and portfolio to see if they understand the New Orleans market. Look at how much you have to financially commit and see if it’s within your budget.

Make Smart Choices in New Orleans Real Estate

Many homeowners are turning to real estate agents because they can navigate the market and connect you with interested buyers. Find a professional who can guide you through the process and start talking about strategies.