The normalization of the real estate market has brought with it the problems inherent within that market. The abnormal market that we have been experiencing over the last five years practically eliminated one of the most obvious ones, namely Foreclosures. As more and more attention is paid to the increasing number of foreclosures and the larger standing inventory of unsold homes, it becomes more difficult to sell a home for top dollar. The expertise of a professional Realtor becomes more valuable in today¡¯s more ¡°normal¡± market. Where previously all it took (in the last few years) was a for sale sign on the yard and a few small ads, that no longer suffices. It is now increasingly important to tap into the knowledge of an experienced professional, and fortunately, there are a good number of them.

One of the most important things you can do as a home-seller seeking to get the highest or best price is to look for the best Realtor to assist you in the process. In today¡¯s real estate industry, you will find many newly licensed agents who have not experienced the ¡°normal¡± market that we have entered. The marketing and analysis of home values are much more complex than just a sign in the yard and a property profile. Experience counts big!! One easy way to look at how much experience an agent has is to look on the Department of Real Estates website where you can see when an agent obtained their license, or to see if they are even licensed. That website is http://www.dre.ca.gov Click on the licensees link and then look up the agent¡¯s by name.

for free http://www.nefcortez.com

Nef Cortez is a California licensed Real Estate Broker. He first obtained his salespersons license in 1976, and then earned his Brokers license in 1984. Mr Cortez has worked in the real estate industry as a salesman, manager, loan officer, and owner of Real Estate and Mortgage Brokerages. He has also served in various committees and offices of Realtor Associations. Visit him at http://www.nefcortez.com