You’ve considered your situation and you have decided to move forward with selling your home, either now or in the next few years. You’ve made the decision to hire a listing agent to help you make the most of your home sale. Now it’s time to find an agent—it’s never too early!

AS YOU SEARCH FOR THE RIGHT LISTING AGENT, KEEP THE FOLLOWING IN MIND

• Be clear with your agent about your expectations for communication. Do you like staying in touch by texting, calling, email, or apps? Find an agent whose communication style works for you and you’ll have a much easier time.
• Trust is very important. Your agent will have access to your financial information, and they will also be your voice in negotiations. A good agent will always put your needs above their own.
• Your listing agent should be a market and real estate, expert. No matter how long they’ve been in the game, they should know exactly what needs to happen, when, and how to do it, or who to call. Look for someone who can build a trusted team to get your home sold, and who knows the local market backward and forward.

Engaging a listing agent early on will help you ready your house for sale. Looking to sell in the spring, for example? Fall is a great time to take professional photos and start on those little repairs you’ve been putting off. Your listing agent can share tips like this, and more. Start the process now and you’ll be able to take your time and fix up your home the right way. It’s never too early to start the conversation!