Why do agents brag about the number of listings???

I always wonder why agents brag about the number of listings they have. While being able to list houses is an admirable quality, being able to sell them is better. When interviewing an agent to sell your house, find out how many houses they have successfully closed in the last year. Ask about the ratio of price received to price asked. (In other words, how close to asking price did the seller receive?) Find out how familiar the agent is about the various financing options out there. Will you be required to pay some of the buyer's costs? (The answer is probably!) Make sure the agent gives you statistics regarding the movement in the market where you live. Can she articulate the probable scenario that will unfold? Does she offer staging, pictures, and video on the internet? And, last, but most importantly, does he roll over when you ask about reducing commisssion? If the agent can't explain to you his value proposition, go to someone else. Do you want an agent who will roll on your negotiations??

Seven Months Inventory- Portland, Me

Did an absorption rate for my clients yesterday and learned that in the 150 thousand to 200 thousand dollar range, there is a seven months supply of houses. Man.......that means it will take seven months to clear out the current inventory IF no other houses come on the market.

Well.....guess that means that the buyers should come off the fence and get going as interest rates have ticked upwards a bit since two to three weeks ago.

Buyers ask me, will I lose money? My answer...no, honey!! Buy now and live in your house for more than three years. You will see the equity increase over time. It always does!

For those of you with money burning a hole in your pocket.......get investing. You buy when it is low and sell when it is high! Guess what!!!? It is time to buy.

Have to sell??? Get a good and ethical broker to help. Get someone with loads of experience. (Like me! Mike and I did 36 deals last year) Do NOT entrust your house to an agent who is part time or dabbling. This market is NOT for the faint hearted.

There is only today! Go and make the most of it.