Who Should You Hire When Selling LAND?

I was talking to a fellow Land Broker the other day and he mentioned he had run across a listing and was actually angry 'for' the seller. The listing broker had written up a one sentence description and posted one picture on the property. He felt so bad for the seller. I have run into similar situations and thought this worthy of posting. So Mr. Landowner, what do you need to know? I’ll tell you!!!!

1. Tools – The Broker should incorporate aerial photography and topographic maps into the listing. The land specialist can provide acre calculation on fields, orchards, ponds and lakes. This is important information the buyer will need when purchasing property.

2. Transportation - If the broker shows up in a car or minivan you had better run. When showing land and farms you will need a 4x4 or UTV vehicle. Many areas are inaccessible with out these vehicles.

3. Interview – Very important! Make sure your broker has a working knowledge of timber, crops, soils, ranches or whatever type real estate you are selling. Ask the broker why they think they are qualified to sell your property. Ask what they can do or services they provide that sets them apart from others.

4. Advertising & Websites – Many times the buyer starts their search on the internet. Make sure the broker has adequate exposure here including a nice looking website that is easy to navigate through. There are several major rural land websites. Make sure the broker is advertising on at least one!!!!

5. Navigation Skills – If the broker can not locate your property or needs you to show them around, that could be a red flag. Eventually the broker will have to show a buyer around the property and you do not want them getting lost! The broker should have tools that allow them to navigate the property such as a smart phone or tablet.

6. Designations - Does the Broker have designations or training that uniquely qualifies him/her to list and market your property?

The National Association of Realtors®  Code of Ethics Article 11
 states….The services which REALTORS® provide to their clients and customers shall conform to the standards of practice and competence which are reasonably expected in the specific real estate disciplines in which they engage; specifically, residential real estate brokerage, real property management, commercial and industrial real estate brokerage, land brokerage, real estate appraisal, real estate counseling, real estate syndication, real estate auction, and international real estate.

REALTORS® shall not undertake to provide specialized professional services concerning a type of property or service that is outside their field of competence unless they engage the assistance of one who is competent on such types of property or service, or unless the facts are fully disclosed to the client. 

We have a fiduciary responsibility to you the client. In summary, if you are offering a triple net lease 50,000 sq. ft. warehouse in Atlanta, GA  I am NOT your man. If are selling a ski-in ski-out vacation home in Vail, Colorado I am NOT your man. Find someone in your area that specializes in your type real estate and put them to work.

To view my listings, visit AllSouthlandandHomes.com.  If you have questions about buying or selling Land, contact G. Kent Morris, ALC, RF @ 706.457.0090