Choosing the right Cleveland listing agent can make or break your sale. But just as important as knowing what to look for… is knowing what not to tolerate. Here are the top five red flags every seller in Cleveland, Chagrin Falls, Bainbridge, Solon, Pepper Pike, and the entire east side should avoid.
1. Your “Sister-in-Law’s Brother’s Cousin” Just because some in your family lineage is a real estate agent, it doesn’t mean you have to work with them! Selling your home—probably one of your largest assets—deserves hiring the most qualified agent. As a courtesy, you could interview that family member. But it they don’t outshine the OTHER agents you interview, just politely let them know you’ve decided to go a different route. And sometimes it’s a wise decision to not mix business with family.
2. The Agent Who Knows Nothing About Your Local Market
Your listing agent should know the difference between 44023 and 44022, how fast homes sell in Kenston and Solon, and what buyers relocating to Cleveland actually want. If they can’t speak confidently about your neighborhood’s micro-trends, they’re guessing. And you’re paying for those guesses. Real estate is hyper local…I wouldn’t hire a west side agent if I was looking to buyer on Cleveland’s east side.
3. The “Yes to Everything” Agent
If they agree with every suggestion you make—including the idea that 1990s wallpaper is “charming”—you’re not working with a professional. You’re working with a people-pleaser. Your real estate agent should be a trusted advisor who can say the hard things. You want accountability and honesty, not flattery.
4. The Discount Agent with the Discount Strategy
The old adage “you get what you pay for” holds true when hiring a listing agent. If an agent is cutting their commission to get your listing, they are probably cutting out critical market too. Today’s Cleveland homebuyers expect professional photography, video, floorplans and more…making sure your discount agent isn’t cutting corners in promoting your house. Also, if they can’t hold their value when listing your home, you can bet they won’t be a strong negotiator for you on the sale. You’re not saving money if they can’t sell your home for market value or higher.
5. The Hard-to-Reach Agent
If they’re slow to respond before you sign the listing agreement, imagine how buyers feel when they try to schedule a showing. A top Cleveland real estate agent communicates clearly, consistently and proactively.
Comments are closed