Final answer:
Real estate agents are not obligated to list properties at the seller's desired price but advise on a realistic price based on market conditions and other factors.
Step-by-step explanation:
Real estate sales agents are not obligated to list properties at the level desired by the seller, as they must consider market conditions, comparables, and other factors that contribute to a house's market value. It is in the agent's best interest to advise the seller on a realistic listing price to facilitate a timely and successful sale. However, ultimately, the listing price is a negotiation between the seller and the agent.
Sellers may have an inflated view of their property's value, and it is the responsibility of the agent to provide a professional assessment based on concrete data. This can sometimes result in discrepancies between the seller's desired listing price and the agent's recommended price. Real estate advertisements may not reveal undesirable aspects of a property, like a landfill next door or a factory across the street. These details may influence the seller's perception of value and the agent's recommendation.
Agents also have to consider that the frequency of advertisements in newspapers, which may list properties only one day per week, and the random times at which homes come up for sale, can affect the exposure and selling process of the listed property.