What does a listing agent do between the signing...

What does a listing agent do between the signing of a listing agreement and sale?

Once you decide on the terms of a "listing agreement," your agent will:

- Enter a description of your home and your terms in the Multiple Listing Service of homes on the market in your area.

- Show your home to prospective buyers.

- Advertise your home, as appropriate.

- Possibly hold an open house.

- Promote the sale of your home in every way possible.

Once you and your agent have a solid marketing strategy formed and your agent is actively promoting your home, you're well on your way to a sale.

Your agent keeps tabs on the changes in the real estate market and tells you what's new in mortgage loans, what sales have recently been made and what pricing fluctuations, if any, are in view. You'll be kept up to date on activity concerning the sale of your home: what advertising has been done, what responses have come back from people who have seen your home. You and your agent will confer regularly so that you stay informed and can consider any changes in your marketing plan.

When a buyer makes an offer, your agent's good closing skills play a vital part in helping you negotiate a contract to effect a sale at a good price.

When you have accepted an offer, your agent helps you prepare for settlement or closing by giving attention to details and by staying in touch with you through the process.