I watch the “My Featured Properties” panel on my website many times with a sense of pride for my beautiful Listings.  Soon “pride” gives way to an awesome feeling of “responsibility.”  Every one of these pictures represents people who have put their trust in me and Shorewest REALTORS  to successfully market their properties—to get them the best possible price in the shortest period of time.  Am I doing everything within my power to achieve this goal?  Emails, flyers, signage, word of mouth, open houses, suggestions as to what sellers can do to improve marketability—this last item gives one pause.  I very much like all of my clients and want them to like me.  I, therefor, often find it difficult to say:  “Mr. Seller, you should paint the trim around the front door, get a different landscaper and, by the way, the price we are asking is about $15,000 over market.”  If I truly want to help them, this is exactly what I am morally and ethically obligated to do.   I must explain how peeling paint, carpet stains, offensive odors and clutter are costing them far more than the expense of minor improvements.  In the current market it is easier than ever to establish the correct asking price:  After 1 week of no showings-- reduce price 10%.  If there are several showings, but no offers—reduce price 5%.  Remember, we as experienced Realtors can only GUESS the correct asking price... the market DICTATES it!