How to choose an agent…
Part 2: Be wary of the agent that has a “buyer ready”
Today, we’re diving into the second item on our list of five key factors to consider when selecting a Melville real estate agent. In this blog post, we’ll be shedding light on the agent who claims to have a “buyer ready to go”. It might sound tempting, but it’s important to approach these claims with a friendly dose of caution to maintain control over your property-selling journey. Let’s explore…
Now, here’s the thing: any agent can tell you they’ve got a buyer all set and ready to go. With the current market’s high demand, nearly every property listing attracts a slew of interested buyers. So, even an agent who recently scored their first sale of the year could pull out this line. They might even sweeten the deal by saying, “They’ll pay top dollar!” But before you get too excited, let’s take a closer look.
It’s essential to keep both feet on the ground when considering the idea that a buyer who hasn’t even seen your house will magically appear and offer a dream price. Trust us, it’s highly unlikely. In most cases, agents use this claim to secure your agreement and then proceed with the standard advertising process. So, you might be wondering, what’s the real value of having this supposed buyer? Well, truth be told, not much.
There will be times where the agent genuinely has a interested buyer who could be a perfect match for your property. And hey, that could save you some marketing expenses and the hassle of multiple open houses. In these cases, it’s okay to give the agent a two-week listing agreement to put their claims to the test. Two weeks should be enough time to figure out if they’re the real deal or just putting on a show. By doing this, you’ll retain control and avoid long-term commitments without losing out on potential opportunities.
However, something we’ve seen happen all too often is properties initially listed at that sky-high “dream price,” only to suffer from continuous price drops until they match the market value. It’s disheartening, to say the least. Sadly, some agents use this tactic to attract listings. They promise the world but gradually work their clients down to reality once the commitment is locked in. We want to make sure you’re aware of this pitfall and approach it with a friendly dose of caution.
To wrap things up, it’s crucial to approach claims of having a ready buyer with a friendly blend of caution and a discerning eye. If you’re inclined to give such agents a chance, consider offering them a two-week listing agreement. This time frame allows for a fair assessment of their claims without locking you into anything long-term. Remember, you’re in control of your real estate journey, and finding the right agent for your needs is key.
As always, we recommend you meet with a few agents before making a decision, the power lies in your hands when it comes to selecting the right agent for your unique needs.
