Choosing a Listing Agent

It’s a big decision. Who do you use to help you sell likely the biggest asset you possess? Obviously, if you have had a real estate agent represent you in the past and you were happy with them, by all means give them a call. If you were not happy with your past agent or you do not have a real estate agent in your contacts list, it is time to find one.

Google Reviews

A great way to gauge a real estate agent prior to contacting them is reading their Google Reviews. Most legitimate agents will have a Google Business Page which will have a “reviews” section. A lot of folks do not like giving reviews or do not have a Google account, which is common, but those that do give reviews typically provide their honest opinion about their transaction. If you are on the hunt for a real estate agent always look for reviews online.

Friends, Family, and Co-Workers

Another great way to find a real estate agent to list your home is to simply ask around. I guarantee you that the majority of your friends, family, and co-workers know a real estate agent and will give you their honest opinion of them. Once they give you their opinion do your own research. Check their online history and their Google Reviews.

Traits of a Listing Agent

Once you have contacted a real estate agent to list your home ask the right questions.

How long have you been in business?

Do you know anything about the area where my home is located?

Do you market my home on social media and other outlets?

Can you send me past client’s contact information so I can verify their experience with you?

Am I dealing with you or multiple people at your Firm? (keep it simple)

These are obviously great questions to ask, but when you finally talk to a potential agent, make sure they listen to you and your needs and make sure they do not spend the whole conversation talking about themselves. For one, it is about you, not them. But also, you want to make sure they (one agent) will be with you all the way through the transaction. The worst communication in a real estate transaction I have witnessed is when there are 5 agents or representatives that make up a “team” and you have no idea who to contact for transaction details.

Contact Stu Barnes

Alexander Manning

19:03 22 May 23

Stu is very knowledgeable about the area and the local market. He was great to work with every step of the way. He was quick to respond to any requests I had and made the process of buying a home from out of state all the easier. Thanks Stu!

Robert Howard

14:34 20 Nov 22

Great experience with Stu. We moved to North Carolina from out of state, so we were not completely familiar with the area. Stu listened to our interests and what we were looking for. We asked for a lot including a large property, public utilities including water and sewage.The things we were looking for turned out to be few and far between however Stu was able to locate a new build in the area we wanted that offered exactly what we were looking for.After letting us know about the property, Stu dropped what he was doing and went to the location of the build where we met with a builder representative who walked us through the house. The property and house were great and no HOA which we were happy about.We were able to quickly make an offer which worked out great because the builder later informed us after our offer there were multiple families attempting to obtain the property.Stu was very professional and friendly throughout everything. He was able to build a positive rapport with the builder that made things incredibly smooth. After moving in, we found a couple minor issues with the house. One phone call to Stu and he was able to contact the builder and quickly resolve the issue.We had a good time finding a home with Stu, it was a totally pleasant experience.

Chris Harper

13:48 16 Nov 22

For the second time, Stu has handled the sell of a home for me and ensured that I received the maximum value out of the home. First time, the house sold the same day as the listing. Second time, we were under contract in days and held out in a rough economy for a few months until all was finally able to close. Stu was very responsive to any question that I sent and he did a fantastic job with the listing of the house.

Lisa Davidson

23:38 07 Oct 21

I had a great experience working with Stu to purchase my first home. He was extremely knowledgable and realistic about the current market. Stu was also very responsive to all my calls, texts and emails, and he was more than willing to see houses with me on less than a 24 hour notice. Thanks for all your help, Stu!

Audrey Suehs

19:22 29 Jul 21

We just purchased a home with Stu's help (despite this extremely competitive market!). He was very upfront and realistic with us, while still being encouraging and helpful. I highly recommend his services.

Nate Newbury

14:40 02 Dec 18

Stu knows the Raleigh area very well. In South Raleigh he knew each neighborhood and even predicted where we were going to buy! He is not pushy and listens to you.If you're reading reviews to make a decision about a realtor, just call Stu and talk with him. After talking with him, you'll know he's genuine and a good realtor.