By Joy Axelson of Axelson Realty LLC

SELLING:

Most homeowners who start out trying to sell their homes “by owner” end up listing it with a licensed real estate agent before it sells. This is likely due in part to the fact that having your property listed for sale on the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) gives it broad exposure to Realtors with clients ready and qualified to purchase your home.

When you decide to list your home with an agent from Axelson Realty, your agent will have you sign a listing agreement for a specified time period. Your agent will have provided you with a CMA (Comparative Market Analysis) to give you a good idea of what your home is currently worth. At your request, your agent can also give you an estimate of your net proceeds and closing costs. You will also have to fill out and sign at least three disclosure forms mandated by the state of Illinois. Your agent will give you a free staging consultation to reduce market time and increase your sale price. You and your agent will agree on a competitive list price that works with your budget. Then your home will be measured, photographed, and listed for sale. Finally, as allowed*, an eye­catching, professional Axelson Realty “For Sale” sign will be placed on your property (often with a flyer box). Your agent will prepare marketing materials for your home and host public open houses and broker’s open houses if desired.

Another advantage of having Axelson Realty list your home is that you do not have to be there when your home is shown. Axelson Realty uses the Sentrilock lock box system to secure your home for showings. An electronic lock box is placed on your door containing a key and only licensed agents in good standing with appointments are allowed to access your home to show it to prospective buyers. The buyer’s agent will make an appointment with your agent. Your agent will contact you to confirm the showing. Your agent will get feedback (both positive and negative) from the agents and buyers and will relay that valuable information to you. Your agent will present all offers to you in a timely fashion and help you negotiate the best price.

At Axelson Realty, our primary concern is not profit; it is your financial and emotional welfare. Because of this, we put your interests above our own. One way this often plays out is if the seller cannot afford to price his home competitively, we offer to list it for rent as well on the MLS. Axelson Realty agents always try to find a way to help sellers keep their homes and not resort to short sales or foreclosure if at all possible.

* Some condominium associations do not allow window or yard signs.