Author: Pam Mason

As a homeowner, when you begin to think about selling your home, you may consider trying to sell it without the assistance of a real estate agent. You may think, ?Why can?t I just put a For Sale By Owner sign in my yard and run an ad in the newspaper, and sell it myself?? And, ?Why do I need to list with a real estate agent?? Or, ?What are the advantages of listing with a real estate agent that participates in a multiple listing service?? You may also wonder ?Where do I get all of those legal forms that are used??

The answer is that you certainly can put your own sign in the yard and run an ad in the newspaper. But, will you actually be able to sell it yourself?

There are many advantages to contacting a professional real estate agent whose job is to expedite the sale of your home. But, not all agents work the same way. One of the most important attributes of a good agent is that they are well connected to the real estate industry. They should know the market and provide information to you about past sales, current listings, their marketing plan, and at least four solid references. In addition, you also want to look for an agent that is honest, assertive, and one that best understands your needs.

It is to your advantage to work with an agent that is familiar with the area. A local agent can better serve your needs, they are familiar with the local market conditions, the local prices, and what?s hot (or not) in your community.

It is also recommended that you engage a Realtor?. They follow a strict code of ethics and are members of the National Association of Realtors, the Georgia Association of Realtors, as well as a local association of Realtors. Not all licensed real estate agents are Realtors.

It is highly advised that you choose an agent that is a member of the multiple listing service(s) for your area. When utilizing a multiple listing service, your property is being advertised to more than just your agent or the agents in their company. There will be hundreds or maybe even thousands of agents with access to your property.

As to the forms used by real estate agents, they are, in fact written by attorneys and are copy written. For example, the Purchase and Sale Agreement indicates Copyright? 2006 by Georgia Association of Realtors, Inc. The forms may only be used with the express consent of the Georgia Association of Realtors (GAR), which is given to Realtors?.