For Listing Agents: why offering 3 choices and managing those choices is key;
Over the last few years, the real estate market has undergone dramatic changes, especially as it climbed through the expansion phase of the economic cycle.
Traditionally, listing agents have played a crucial role in helping sellers prepare their homes for listing, ensuring that necessary repairs are made and the property is in the best possible condition for potential buyers. However, as the market has been in the expansion phase, listing agents have been able to list homes without much improvement or preparation.
The Importance of Pre-Listing Inspections
One of the key strategies that have emerged is the concept of a certified pre-owned (CPO) home. In fact; agents who have been part of the www.CPOexperts.com program have been offering this process since 2007. This process involves conducting a pre-inspection before the property is listed, which can save a significant amount of time, money and stress, during the sale. As home prices soared during the expansion phase, it was common for properties to receive multiple offers, often with little to no preparation needed. However, this trend began to shift around 2022 in most markets across the United States. Nothing new here - Clement Juglar outlined the economic cycle in 1860, and nothing much has changed!
With the market stabilizing, sellers can no longer rely on the frenzy of multiple offers without preparing their homes thoroughly. To compete effectively and achieve the highest possible price, it’s now more important than ever for sellers to get everything in order before listing their property. This is where listing agents can truly make a difference.
Agents as Key Players in the Preparation Process
To stand out in the competitive real estate landscape, agents must arm themselves with a network of trusted contractors, such as carpet suppliers, handymen, electricians, roofers and plumbers. These relationships are invaluable when it comes to preparing a home for sale. By having a list of reliable professionals on hand, agents can quickly and efficiently address any repairs or improvements that need to be made.
In the case of the CashCPO system, much of this work can be handled by our funding partners' project managers.
However, agents with local knowledge can still play a vital role by recommending contractors who can address specific issues identified during the pre-listing inspection. For instance, if a roof is nearing the end of its life, obtaining three roofing quotes can provide valuable information, even if the seller doesn’t have the funds to replace it immediately. The estimates can be share during the selling process - after all; with a traditional listing, the issue is going to come up when the buyer has their inspection. Local agents can save their clients money by assisting with the logistics of the repairs or improvements.
Transparency and Trust Through Upfront Inspections
Conducting an inspection before listing the home is becoming more common, particularly in states like California. CPO experts have been doing this since 2007! This proactive approach allows sellers to obtain estimates for necessary repairs upfront, ensuring that all parties involved in the transaction are fully informed. Even if the seller doesn’t have the resources to make certain repairs, simply noting them on the inspection report can foster a level of trust that is often lacking in real estate transactions.
This transparency benefits everyone. Buyers know exactly what they’re getting into, and sellers can avoid surprises that might arise during the buyer’s inspection. Whether a home is listed as a conventional property, a certified pre-owned home, or through a cash CPO program, it’s crucial that agents are prepared to guide their clients through this process.
In "Find Your Unique Value Proposition", a bestselling book geared towards real estate agents, it's claimed that 33% of conventional sales 'fall out' during the contract stage. Compare this to 7% with a Certified Pre-Owned sale, when the home is pre-inspected, and may be appraised, and perhaps offering a Home Warranty. Learn more about Conventional CPO and CashCPO here.
The Competitive Edge for Agents
In today’s market, the agents who can provide comprehensive support to their clients—whether it’s through offering a pre-listing inspection, connecting sellers with reliable contractors, or simply ensuring that the home is properly prepared—are the ones who will stand out from the crowd. By taking these extra steps, agents can help their clients achieve the best possible outcome, making the sale process smoother and more successful for everyone involved.
As the real estate market continues to evolve, the role of the professional listing agent is becoming more critical than ever. Preparation is key, and those who can offer the right guidance and resources will not only help their clients succeed but also distinguish themselves in a competitive industry.
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Role Play with Joey Ramos, CEO of a listing presentation
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