Even in a seller's market, putting a For Sale sign in the front yard can be a daunting step. Regardless of why you're relocating, you'll want to find the best possible realtor in your area to work with. Take a look below for just three valuable tips to help you find a realtor who can help you sell your home quickly and for a price that can beat your expectations.

Sale to List Price Ratio

Initial list prices don't mean much if the home doesn't sell for that amount. That's why the first set of data you should get from a realtor is their sale to list price ratio. This will give you a concrete idea of how much other homes were listed for, and more importantly, how much they actually sold for. If you notice a large discrepancy between the two, you may want to ask your realtor about the reasons why. These could include anything from general market fluctuations to case-specific exceptions. On the other hand, if the ratio is roughly 1:1, then you can rest easy knowing what to expect.

Time on Market

Another key factor you should use when evaluating a realtor in your area is the time that their respective properties spend on the market. This is usually measured in days during a more active market, though slower real estate markets can see homes that sit for months while waiting for a buyer. Regardless, it's a good idea to get a median number that represents the time from listing to close that a realtor has spent with each home. Used in conjunction with the sale to list price ratio, you can easily locate a realtor who will sell your home quickly without bringing down the price.

Additional Support

Real estate agents engage in a number of tasks to support their clients, but these tasks vary depending on the seller. More experienced sellers are likely to want a multimedia marketing plan from their agents, especially if their property is in the luxury real estate market. Newer sellers may not prioritize marketing, but instead, ask for help with the paperwork and inspections that are part of any sale. Still, others might want their agent to jumpstart plans for renovation or staging that will help their home sell for more. Look for an agent that matches your needs and goals during the selling process and is willing to work with you to make them a reality.