Interviewing Brokers

Where did they come up with numbers? Are they providing you with comps? You need comps from 2005/2006 to realistically assess the value of your home. You should be prepared for a lower number than you initially thought. Are any of those numbers close to each other?

What were their reasoning behind the numbers? Anyone convincing? The agent w/ the highest quote might just be trying to impress you by citing a big number. By contrast, the agent w/ the lowest quote might be either a realistic agent or an agent who only knows how to sell by pricing low.

Did anyone give you a prospectus with recent comps? How do the look compared to yours, given the market condition? Any marketing plans presented to you? If you have a doorman, ask him about these agents. Doormen can often tell you who the good realtors are.

Finally--I recently had some bad experiences with a realtor (she was absolutely uninformed about the market, she was lying through her teeth, and her work was quite sloppy--e.g., messing up showing times). A bad agent can make your life very difficult, so ask artound to make sure that s/he is competent, well-liked, and well-respected. Good luck!

I wouldn't go with any of them based upon just price. Anyone can come up with a price. And you should be actively participating in that decision!

What you need is someone who can sell your place - particularly in today's tough market.

Who has the best strategy? Who has the best references you can check? How much will they charge for their services? How many open-houses will they commit to? How long do "you" have to commit to them? Etc.

Why not through out a little more information and let's see what the peanut gallery can come up with.

What specifics, Burkh?

Should I bet looking at 05/06 comps? There hasn't been much recent movement ... obviously .....

Building and size would be a good start.