Choosing a Broker to Pay for "Broker's Opinion"

[Lucinda Hamre]

We are preparing to sell our first investment property, which is a large handicap-accessible lodging house (8 BD/2 bath plus 2 extra ensuites, workout room, etc.) The house could also be used as a large SF dwelling or for several commercial uses. I've been told that a broker's opinion will give us a good starting point to discuss options and where to best spend money in order to get maximum return under various use scenarios. For example, some commercial uses might require a stainless steel kitchen vs. corian countertops.

1. How do you decide on the best broker that has the widest reach and what are they likely to charge?

2. What are the benefits over just having a good real-estate agent come through?

3. If they propose that we sell as a pocket listing, how do you know you're getting the optimal return?

4. What other things should I be considering?

Many thanks to those who help us newbies!!