What type of professional can advise me on selling my house?

December 1, 2015 5:51 AM

I bought my first house a few years ago, with the help of a mortgage advisor. Now I'm starting to consider moving to a different city (where I would rent a place), but I need some professional help in analyzing my mortgage situation. Also, I know the house needs some repairs and cosmetic fixes, so I'd also like to get professional advice on how to handle those issues (basically, how much should I spend to make the house sellable).

Because of vacations, work events, etc., I wouldn't be ready to list the house until mid-2016; but I'd like to start looking at the possibilities now so I can make a plan.

Location is the Netherlands, but I know very little about Dutch financial, legal, or real estate matters. In case it helps, my mortgage is with Rabobank.

Is this a job for a general-purpose financial planner? Do real estate agents typically offer this type of service?

posted by neushoorn to Work & Money (3 answers total)

In the US, Real Estate agents do perform the services you're describing. At least in giving you a target sale price, and telling you what will or won't matter when preparing your house to go on the market. Most will do this free, as part of the wooing to get you to give them the listing. Real Estate agents are also a WEALTH of connections to tradespeople who can perform the necessary work at a fair price.

Call a couple of agents, tell them what you want and see who comes through for you. Or, if you worked with a real estate agent on purchasing your home, call that person. Ask among friends to see if they know someone.
posted by Ruthless Bunny at 5:58 AM on December 1, 2015

In the US, this is exactly what a real estate agent would do and a financial planner would be of very little help. You could ask your neighbors if they have a suggestion of an agent who has been successful in your neighborhood.
posted by areaperson at 8:03 AM on December 1, 2015

Response by poster: Thanks, guys. I was assuming it was too early (and too iffy) to talk to a real estate agent, but it sounds like that's where I should start.
posted by neushoorn at 2:08 AM on December 2, 2015