What to Know Before Hiring a Listing Agent to Sell Your Home
Selling your home isn’t just about putting up a sign and waiting for offers to roll in. (Wouldn’t that be nice?) In reality, a great sale takes preparation, strategy, and a whole lot of communication. And at the center of it all? Your listing agent.
But how do you pick the right one? With a sea of agents out there—billboards, postcards, ads galore—it can be hard to tell who’s going to actually show up for you and who’s just good at marketing themselves. So let’s talk about what really matters when choosing an agent to sell your home.
A Good Agent Will Guide You Through Prep—Not Just Snap Photos
Staging, repairs, curb appeal… these things make a big difference. A good agent doesn’t just list your home as-is and hope for the best—they help you get it ready.
We like to say: the best sale starts weeks before the home ever hits the market. Whether it’s helping coordinate painters or knowing which upgrades are worth it (and which aren’t), your agent should be your planning partner.
Ask About Their Marketing Plan—And Make Sure It’s More Than a Flyer
Your agent should be able to tell you exactly how they’re going to market your home—and not just with an MLS listing and an open house.
That might include:
Professional photography (yes, this matters a lot!)
Video or virtual tours
Social media campaigns
Print Collateral
Digital ads
Direct outreach to buyers or agents
In our case, we tap into both our artistic roots and our years of real estate experience to present homes in their best light. It’s more than marketing—it’s storytelling.
Communication Isn’t a Bonus—It’s Essential
Selling your home is emotional, even when it’s the right decision. You need someone who keeps you in the loop every step of the way, responds to questions promptly, and walks you through each phase with clarity and calm.
Before you sign anything, ask:
How often will I hear from you?
Will I be working with you directly or your team?
How do you prefer to communicate (text, email, phone)?
Trust your gut here. If someone feels evasive or overly pushy, that probably won’t change once your home is listed.
Chemistry Counts More Than You Think
This might sound a little soft, but honestly—it matters. You’re going to be in touch with your agent a lot. You’ll be making big decisions together. So make sure it’s someone you trust, like, and feel heard by.
We’ve worked with hundreds of sellers and know firsthand: the best partnerships are rooted in mutual respect, good communication, and a shared goal.
Let’s Talk Selling—On Your Terms
Thinking about selling but not quite ready to commit? Totally fine. We’re always happy to meet for a no-pressure consult. We’ll walk your home, talk through strategy, and answer any questions you’ve been mulling over. No hard sales, just honest advice.
Because in our book, a well-informed seller is an empowered one.
Licensed Oregon Realtors
Selling in Portland? Let’s make your move a smart one.
We’re a husband-and-wife real estate team who’s helped Portland homeowners sell with confidence for over a decade. With our creative backgrounds, eye for detail, and deep local knowledge, we bring more than just market expertise—we bring care, clarity, and a personal touch to every listing. Ready to chat about what your home might be worth? Call or text us at 503-951-8547 to schedule a complimentary consult.
