Step 1: Interviewing real estate agents: It's more important now than it was even a few years ago to acquire professional guidance to get your house sold for a reasonable amount in a resonably short period of time. Finding that top agents is critical. Here are a few questions you should ask before listing with any agent:

• Are you a REALTOR (member of the National Association of Realtors)?
• How long have you been selling real estate in Colorado Springs?
• How many homes do you sell per year, on average?
• Can you give me references / contact information for people you've sold homes for in Coloraro Springs?
• What was the average selling price of those homes in relation to the list price?
• What is the process for selling my home?
• What do I need to do to my house to prepare for potential buyers?
• What can I do to make my house sell quickly?
• How many houses like mine are currently for sale and how much are they listed for?
• What is your marketing plan to sell my house?
• How will you determine the list price of my house?

Notice the list price question came last. Too often sellers interview agents and list their house with the agent who comes up with the highest price. In a buyers' market, the highest price may cause your house to sit on the market longer, usually resulting in a much lower sale price months down the road than if it had been priced right from the beginning. Find the agent who will partner with you to get your house sold in a reasonable amount of time for a reasonable amount of money, and give you honest, helpful feedback along the way.