One-Step, Two-Step, Which Listing Practice Works Best?

Listing homes is an art when it's done well. It can also be disastrous when key components are ignored. Some of the masters of the business recommend a certain amount of research and interaction before taking on any listing. What are the things we need to consider before forging ahead and getting signatures?

• Always, always, always--price, condition, & location are key elements!
• If the sellers were to rate their motivation to move on a scale of 1 to 10, where are they?
• If previously listed, what's the feedback been like?
• How does the home stack up to comparables?
• How soon do the owners need the home sold? Tomorrow? Well then, pricing is key (along w/ condition)!
• Do I want another overpriced listing? When will price reductions take place?
• How much do they owe against the house?
• Short-sale, foreclosure, sherriff's sale?
• Are all parties on title willing sellers?
• Are the sellers willing to make improvements necessary to place the home in a saleable condition?
• Are showing times flexible enough to allow buyers in at reasonable times?
• How familiar are the sellers w/ your marketing plan? Have them state it back to make sure you're on the same page & get off on the right path.
• Do I have key information to reach all parties when an offer arrives?
• Have the sellers seen an estimate of proceeds sheet?

I know, tip of the iceberg, maybe even basic. However, none of it really can be overlooked for a successful sale. Some of this can be done in a pre-list packet, some in a one-step meeting. Yet don't rush to take photos & do date entry until you have something worth selling. Remember, your name is attached to it!