From your own experiences with prior real estate transactions you've probably developed a mental check list.  I know that when I’ve been a seller, and when I’m representing a seller, I'm looking for the optimal path to an accepted purchase agreement with a closed escrow, and the money in the bank.  Here's my check list of the most important points in accomplishing the goal of getting it sold right: 

     1. Price
     2. Exposure
     3. Follow-through
     4. Professionalism 

Setting the listing price at the true market value is the single most important factor.  The real estate market has a wisdom of its own, and no matter what the agents do, they can't change the market.  If properties are priced too high, they don't sell.  It's a hard truth, but a consistent one. 

If time is on your side, it's natural to want to test the market at the high end to see if there is that one special buyer out there who is just waiting for a property to come along with the particular features that your property has. But, if there is no appreciable activity on the listing within the first month, it is essential to wisely make adjustments to come into alignment with the true market value.  Serious buyers and their agents are all very aware when properties are over-priced, and when inventory is high (as it is now) they simply move on to other properties that are priced to sell.

Exposure of properties for sale has changed terrifically in recent years, due to the Internet.  Almost all real estate transactions are now using the Internet to some degree, and buyers now have access to the MLS, as they do on this website.  Therefore, buyers tend to be well-informed and highly participatory in locating properties of interest. 

To service those interests, agent follow-through needs to be available, responsive and truly expert.  And professionalism is the key to converting an interest into a transaction, and concluding it successfully.  Contracts need to be highly protective of your rights and best interests, properly fulfill a multitude of legal requirements, safeguard you from entanglements through the escrow process and beyond.

You’ll want an agent who makes you his top priority and efficiently takes action on every detail until you have your money in the bank.