It can be very tempting to consider the possible savings on commissions. And, since no one knows your home better than you, the choice should be obvious. But there is so much more to selling a home than simply putting a For Sale sign in the front yard.

There are reasons why some agents seem to do so well. They work hard, pay attention to detail and are available at all times. They also use all the tools at their disposal, including extensive training, knowledge of the industry and neighborhoods and marketing expertise. A good licensed agent knows what needs to be done and when and is aware of the potential pitfalls in this very important decision.

Gone are the days when an agent could be successful by simply putting a sign in the yard, making a few phone calls and having a nice smile. Changes in technology have made an impact in the way your property can be marketed. Today's real estate professional has so many more options available, and the smart agent knows how to use them. They combine the traditional tried and true marketing efforts with today's technology to better serve you and represent your needs to a greater group of potential buyers.

A certain level of trust is imperative. Beyond that, an aggressive marketing plan needs to be agreed upon. A front yard sign and placement on the Multiple Listing Service are important, but eMarketing plays an increasingly larger role in finding the right Buyer.

An effective web site can allow an agent to put your listing on the Internet for the world to see. This is a much more efficient way to market to a greater viewing audience whom you are not able to reach by sending out post cards or making phone calls. Think of it as an internet mall. With photos of the inside and outside of your home and possibly virtual tours, buyers can explore before calling for an appointment.

A good web site may also link buyers to on-line calculators, mortgage companies, general property search features, neighborhood and school searches, plus other valuable information that can allow them to see the affordability and assets of your home. And this information is available any time, anywhere. You no longer have to sit around hoping for a phone call or someone seeing your ad in the paper. You and your agent are open for business 24/7.

Today's agent also has the capability of emailing photos of your property anywhere in the world. - great for potential out-of-town buyers. Messages sent via email or through a website can automatically trigger a cell phone, keeping your agent in constant contact. And many smart agents send regular email Newsletters that contain their listings and links back to information that can benefit the sale of your home. Instead of waiting for someone to drive down your street and see your sign, you now have the world at your fingertips.

With so many houses on the market, it's wise to choose a sophisticated and high tech agent who can assertively promote your home. The odds are greater that your property will sell faster and at a higher price.

Copyright 2005 PropertySource Network