What Does A Listing Agent Do in L.A.

Selling your home? Here’s why working with an experienced realtor matters.

In today’s world, it’s easy to think you don’t need a real estate agent to sell your home. The internet is full of tips and opinions, making it seem like a simple process. But the truth is, selling a home takes much more work than people realize, and when things go wrong, they can become costly and stressful. While it’s true that you’re not required to hire an agent, having an experienced listing agent can help make the process smooth and stress-free.

What Does a Listing Agent Do?

Selling a home is not just about putting a listing online. Buyers drive the pace of the sale, and sellers need to be prepared to present their home in the best possible light. A skilled listing agent knows how to create opportunities for the seller, guide the process, and handle unexpected issues. Here’s what a good listing agent does:

• Defines Success: Works with you to set clear goals for the sale.
• Prepares the Home: Helps create a checklist for staging and paperwork.
• Market Analysis: Analyzes data to set the right price and strategy.
• Preps Media: Organizes professional photos and marketing materials.
• Manages the Listing: Coordinates showings and markets the property to the right buyers.
• Provides Feedback: Keeps you updated with buyer and agent feedback.
• Always Available: Stays responsive via phone, email, and text—this isn’t a part-time job!
• Negotiates with Buyers: Communicates with buyer’s agents and negotiates the best deal.
• Manages Contracts: Handles inspections, appraisals, and any issues that arise.
• Assists with Closing: Guides you through the closing process and ensures everything is in order.
• Post-Close Support: Ensures you have all necessary documents after closing.

Why Experience Matters

An experienced agent knows how to price and present your home to attract buyers quickly. Without the right approach, buyers move on to the next listing, and opportunities are lost. Some sellers think just posting on the MLS is enough, but real estate is much more complex than that. Even big companies like Zillow and Redfin, with their discount services, struggled in the market. Redfin even tried offering rebates to buyers and sellers, but it didn’t work out.

Selling a home is a major financial decision, and it’s worth investing in a professional who will get it right. Make sure to research your agent, ask questions, and read reviews.

Remember, real estate transactions are easy—until they’re not. Don’t risk costly mistakes. Work with a qualified, experienced realtor who will guide you every step of the way.

Looking for expert advice? Contact me today to get started!

Put Betty's  20+ years of combine experience in Real Estate and Mortgage underwriting to Work For You!    Make sound, informed real estate decisions with her expert advice every step of the way. Contact Betty Ortiz today! (818)270.7090