Don't Kill the Messenger

One of the most important services a real estate agent provides to the consumer is good counsel. It is not as easy as it sounds. Being sensitive to a customer's feelings while giving honest counsel and feedback is a delicate balance of tact, and diplomacy.

• Bright colors or wallpaper that express a strong statement of personal taste can get in the way of a sale an agent may encourage you to remove wallpaper and to paint the walls with a neutral color.

• Different color rugs in every room can make the floor plan look like a jigsaw puzzle, re-carpeting with a neutral color may be the answer.

• Household odors because of pets, smoking, cooking etc. are difficult because often the owner doesn't smell them but a prospect does.

By allowing an agent to be direct and give you the feedback you need to prepare the property for sale increases the probability that you will have a sale in a reasonable period of time at current market value.