1. Find the right representative

The experience and knowledge of a dedicated real estate professional can be priceless. A good realtor forms a powerful team with his or her clients that makes it possible for them to have a smooth, successful, stress-free sale.

2. Determine your needs/wants for the sale and new home

Selling your primary residence can be tricky because you have to simultaneously be thinking about where you would like to buy. First weigh your priorities - selling price is certainly important, but having a quick and efficient sale can often be worth accepting a slightly lower offer. Talk to your agent and make sure you're comfortable with where your priorities are.

At the same time, you should be compiling a needs/wants list for the home you will buy. You will probably have to act fairly quickly when your house sells, so any amount of preparation you can do will serve you well.

3. Prepare your house for showing

Underprepared homes can be sales disasters. Your home will never get as much attention from potential buyers as when it is first listed, so clearing clutter, cleaning, making repairs, and putting your home's best foot forward is essential. Don't "open for business" until your home is ready to be seen as favorably as possible.

4. Find out what your local market looks like

Being realistic about your market is the key to a smooth sale. There is no substitute for a professional real estate representative when it comes to local market knowledge.

5. List away!

Lots of photos and online exposure are the key to getting a good response for your listing. Working with an agent who uses Point2 Agent software is a great step in the right direction. Now just "open" the house and sit back and wait for the flood of eager buyers!

1. Pays for all marketing and advertising costs.

2. Adds experience and expertise in all aspects of the sales process including marketing, financing, negotiations and more.

3. Handles all showings.

4. Brings a network of known, trusted real estate professionals. If your agent doesn't have the answer, he or she likely knows someone who does.

5. Always has your interests in mind so you always have someone on your side.

6. Can handle and advise on all price and contract negotiations.

7. Provides you with all the possible options and opportunities without holding back.

8. Gives an unbiased, realistic view of your home and your options. Unlike buyers and sellers, an agent has no emotional attachment to property.

9. Has the knowledge to help you ask the right questions.

10. Being a third party, potential buyers are more likely to tell your agent the truth about your home, even if it is unflattering. This objective viewpoint will help you make the necessary changes to get your home sold.

11. Your time is valuable. A real estate agent allows you to spend your time how you want.