how to handle "If you ever want to sell... questions

[Belinda B.]

Hi,

I have made the difficult decisions to sell the family farm I inherited almost 3 years ago. I asked for recommendations and have been speaking with a Realtor that specializes in these types of properties. I am nearly ready to hire him, but I am not sure about how to handle the 2 people longtime business associates of my family and actual distant family that have always said "if you ever want to sell the farm let us know".

It is hard to put an exact sales price. I am sure these folks would expect a direct sell without the Realtor, but I want to get a fair market price too. I also realize Realtor won't want to work and then have it sold around him. He mentioned a "lowered commission for certain named buyers and doing the negotiations". I think these "friends" would expect to talk to me directly not the Realtor. Realtor has buyers looking to buy a similar size piece as well.

I live several hours drive away from the property. It is a large parcel.

Thanks in advance for your help.