Quick Answer
Full-service representation, from pricing to closing
Sellers hire agents for expertise, support and results. According to the National Association of Realtors® survey cited by Market Leader, sellers’ top expectations include selling within their desired time frame, marketing the home effectively, securing a buyer and assisting with pricing. In practice, this means your Realtor should provide a comparative market analysis, develop a tailored marketing plan, communicate regularly, advise on home preparation, negotiate offers and shepherd the deal through closing. A great listing agent is proactive, honest and committed to protecting your interests at every step.
Here is what a seller should expect their realtor to deliver, stated as concrete deliverables:
A Comparative Market Analysis before listing, not just a price. You should receive an actual CMA showing what comparable homes in your neighborhood sold for in the past 90 days, the current active listings you are competing with, and the agent's recommended list price with their reasoning. If an agent walks in with a number and no data behind it, that is not a CMA. Push for the documentation.
A written marketing plan with a timeline. Before your home goes live on the MLS, you should know: when professional photos are being taken, when the listing goes active, whether there will be an open house and when, and which platforms beyond the MLS the agent uses to promote the listing. "I'll put it on Zillow" is not a marketing plan.
A weekly market update and showing feedback within 24 hours. You should hear from your agent at least once a week with a summary of activity, showing comments from buyers, and any market changes that affect your pricing strategy. You should also receive feedback from each showing within 24 hours. If you are not getting that, ask for it directly. A good agent expects to provide it.
All offers presented in writing. Every offer you receive, including low ones, should be presented to you in writing within a reasonable timeframe, typically within a few hours of receipt. An agent who filters offers or delays presenting ones they consider weak is not representing you, they are making decisions for you.
Closing-day coordination with no surprises. The week before closing, your agent should confirm with the title company, the buyer's lender, and the buyer's agent that everything is on track. You should know the expected closing time, what you need to bring, and what to expect at the table before you get there. A closing that surprises a seller is one the agent did not manage well in the final stretch.