The Secret to Selling? Using an Agent to Get Your Home Noticed

In a recent survey, the National Association of Realtors (NAR) asked sellers what they value most from a real estate agent. The top response was clear: sellers want help marketing their homes.  

And it makes perfect sense. How your agent markets your home can make all the difference in whether it catches the eye of potential buyers. That’s why partnering with a skilled, local agent who knows the ropes is crucial.

According to the same NAR report, here are some of the most common marketing strategies real estate agents use—and how you benefit when they put these methods to work (see graph below): 

Listing on the MLS – Real estate agents have exclusive access to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS), which means your home gets wider exposure to other agents and potential buyers. The more people who see your listing, the higher the chances it’ll sell.  

Using a Yard Sign – It might seem simple, but a yard sign is one of the best ways to grab the attention of passersby. When they notice it, they’ll spread the word to friends and family who might be looking for a home in the area. Plus, it displays your agent’s contact info, making it easy for interested buyers to reach out.  

Hosting an Open House – An open house creates a sense of urgency among buyers, often leading to stronger offers. It’s also convenient for you—many buyers can view the property in one go, and it gives your agent a chance to gather immediate feedback on what buyers like and what they’re unsure about.  

Showcasing on Your Agent’s Website – Featuring your home on your agent’s website presents it professionally and targets serious buyers. Visitors to the site are typically more motivated, making it an excellent way to attract buyers who are ready to make a move.  

Social Media Marketing – Sharing your home on social platforms extends its reach beyond traditional marketing methods, exposing it to potential buyers who may have missed it otherwise. It also allows your listing to be easily shared among friends and family, further spreading the word.  

Providing Virtual Tours – Virtual tours make it easy for out-of-town buyers to explore your home at their convenience, expanding your potential buyer pool. These tours provide accessibility and can attract interest from buyers who can’t visit in person.  

Using Video – Video allows your agent to highlight key features of your home, such as the kitchen, spacious closets, or outdoor entertainment areas. This can create a stronger emotional connection with buyers and showcase the property in dynamic, engaging ways.  

Sending Emails – Email marketing is a powerful tool. Your agent can send your listing to their extensive database of contacts, reaching more buyers. A great agent might even send teasers before the listing goes live, building anticipation for your open house. In the end, most agents will list your home with a description and high-quality photos. But a great agent goes above and beyond—they’ll leverage their creativity, expertise, and time to make sure your home stands out, catches buyers’ attention, and ultimately sells. 

Bottom Line Working with a creative, local real estate agent is one of the smartest ways to ensure your home gets noticed by the right buyers. If you're ready to sell and want to discuss strategies to get your home sold, reach out to an agent today.