If you’re looking to sell your house, hiring a real estate agent should be one of your top priorities. Contrary to what many may think, real estate agents aren’t just for buyers; they’re actually very helpful for sellers as well. And though it’s possible to sell on your own, an agent for sellers—often called a listing agent—is a valuable resource who will save you both time and money. Here are a few benefits to consider.

1. They understand prices.

Good real estate agents know the housing market better than you do. Because of this, they will know a fair price at which to list your house. Their help will keep you from underselling your house and being cheated out of your home’s true value, as well as help you avoid low interest which can occur with listings higher than your home’s value.

2. They will generate exposure

Agents know where to list a house and will promote it to potential buyers who contact them in search of their next home. This means your property will receive more showings and potentially higher offers thanks to your real estate agent’s connections and professional expertise.

3. They can help you stage

Since they’ve seen many houses and likely worked with many buyers, real estate agents understand what buyers look for in a home and what turns them off and even current real estate trends. Ask your agent for help staging your home or cleaning up the outside to further entice buyers. Why hire a stager when your agent already knows the tricks?

4. They have the negotiation skills

They know how to advise you through the process after you receive offer as well as understand how to handle multiple offer scenarios and negotiate with low offers. Agents also can negotiate with buyers over a faster closing date, inspection results and waived contingencies; saving you money along the way.

5. They know the process

After you’ve accepted an offer, the process isn’t quite over. There likely will be inspections and appraisals among other processes and paperwork that must be done. An agent knows these processes and can help guide you through them, making the transition quicker and easier than it would be on your own.

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