As the Austin Real Estate markets gains momentum - moving into the Spring Selling Season I wanted to highlight to you what are the really important factors when choosing a listing agent.  Since the Austin Real Estate Market has been hot for a couple years now we've seen more and more agents enter into our field.  Everyone knows someone that is an agent and truthfully - the work that comes with being a REALTOR isn't rocket science. I'm not saying that to discredit anything that we do as professionals.  I've got my MBA from Notre Dame and have worked at Motorola, Freescale, Ford and a handful of other companies. None of those jobs were rocket science either. My point being that once you get familiar with the product (in this case the market) and the systems and forms that go into it - it's not a mind-blowing industry that is consistently redefining how the business or client to business relationships work.  With that understood - every agent you talk to - should be able to get you through the selling process, meaning process the docs and enter you into MLS, at a bare minimum.  What you need to look for is a REALTOR or agency that doesn't just understand Austin Real Estate but understands MARKETING.

I say this to you because even though you already know it, most people don't give it that much thought when searching for an agent.  They are so overwhelmed with what to do in order to sell their home that they really don't ask themselves "If I was looking to buy a home just like mine - where would I look?"

The answer:  You are on the internet right now reading this article - and 85% of home buyers now search for homes on-line.  You need to ask yourself - "how did I get to HomesATX.com?" and "Why didn't I end up on another REALTORS site?"....

You are here because we brought you here.  We make sure you can find us by advertising on-line and throughout Austin. We market to those that are interested in buying and selling - and we know how to make ourselves and your properties visible on line where those that want to buy it are looking.  Be careful not to get caught up with an agent that tells you - I have 20 years experience and a great marketing program that consists of flyers, just listed cards, and a virtual tour.  Those things are common place now.  If they aren't offering you those as an industry standard- don't even consider them.  REALTOR websites are great but if they don't have an online marketing campaign bringing people to their website - what good does it do you to have your home advertised for sale on a website that no is visiting?  If someone types "homes for sale in your subdivision" into a search engine and your agent's website doesn't pop up as a selection on the first page... What service have you been provided?  I'll say it again - 85% of buyers are looking on-line. What good did a "just listed" card or flyer that is sitting out in front or your house do for you if all the buyer's looking for properties in your neighborhood are looking online.

You don't just need a REALTOR to help you sell your home - you need someone that understands MARKETING!