the Cost of Seller's Real Estate Agents

Full service realtor who represented me as seller. Service included price consultation, listing on MLS, showing unit, marketing in appropriate newspapers and other forums. Listing agreement was for six months and was to sell a condominium that was an investment property. The same realtor had represented me on the purchase of the unit, and has also secured the tenant who's lease had just expired. The fee arrangement was 6%, which as normal was split between my agent and agent representing the buyer.

The service was excellent. The unit sold for 90% of the asking price within 90 days of listing in a fairly difficult market. Atlanta, GA is not the slowest of markets, but not the easiest either. The agent effectively marketed the condominium and had interested parties requesting showings within days. The eventual buyer first expressed interest around two months after listing. My realtor handled price negotiations with the other realtor representing the buyer. I feel she did a good job and secured a good price.

It is often best to go with a realtor you have prior experience with. If you don't have such a relationship, a referral from a trusted party can also be helpful. Be careful of very low fee realtors. Many times you get what you pay for. Saving a few percent fees is not worth it if you lose thousands in sale price.