For anyone about to buy or sell real estate, you should select your real estate agent carefully. You can talk to several agents before agreeing to work with anyone. For those about to list their home, you should see eye to eye with your agent on the sales price and ask them about their marketing strategy. If you want to purchase a home, you should be clear on your budget and needs for the new house and see if your agent brings you appropriate listings.
Whether you are buying or selling, there are a few hallmarks of a good agent you can look out for when shopping around for representation. You can determine the quality of an agent by asking the right questions and paying attention to details.
Communication is key
When you reach out to an agent to discuss your real estate needs, you should consider how long it takes for them to get back to you. While a delay in reply could be due to an active client base or a family matter, this could be a taste of what is to come. Working with someone who takes a long time to respond and cannot be reached regularly could negatively impact your transaction. Scheduling a showing, making an offer, and entering into negotiations can happen quickly, and knowing your agent can be reached easily will be significant.
You should also determine early on what their communication style is and express to them how you prefer to communicate. If your agent likes to email infographics to help explain complex real estate topics, and you do not use email regularly, then your agent should cater their approach to communicate effectively to you.
First impressions
Whether you are meeting in person or just talking over the phone, your agent’s first impression should exude professional confidence and personable attributes. Your impression of a person, either positive or negative, will likely be recognized by others who meet them. When you first meet to discuss your needs, you should take note of how they prepared. If you are looking to sell your home, your agent should have ideas on how to market your property and have research on how they arrived at their suggested sales price. If you are looking to make a purchase, then they should be asking you questions to understand what qualities you are looking for in a home. Always go with your gut and trust your first impression.
Answers your questions
When you are talking with an agent, they should have the confidence and knowledge to answer any questions you may have. They should also have the confidence to say that they do not know something and would be happy to research the answer for you. When you sign a contract with a buyer or seller, you should understand the contract from front to back.
If your agent cannot answer your questions or offers vague answers instead of self-assured replies, then your confidence in their leadership may come into question. Buying or selling real estate is a huge financial undertaking, and if your agent’s answers and solutions do not appear to be based on research and logic, then you should work with someone who will earn their commission.
Adept at problem-solving
When you enlist the help of a real estate professional, then you should expect them to make the transaction easier instead of harder. If you are not familiar with real estate dealings, then your agent should let you know what to expect and keep you informed at every stage of the deal. While your agent cannot fix a bad credit score, they should offer solutions when faced with a problem.
A good agent should be hands-on and ready to help where needed. When you have time constraints added to your purchase or sale, they should take this into account and plan accordingly. Real estate agents should work to ensure that you are prepared for each hurdle and confident in finalizing the transaction.
Motivated to close
While some agents have too much on their plate, and others take a lackadaisical approach to real estate, the right agent will be motivated to close your transaction. A realtor should give you the information and time to make your decisions carefully while progressing the deal. Agents should offer multiple avenues for marketing your home and show enthusiasm to showcase your property.
For those who are looking for their dream home, your agent should actively seek out properties that fit your specifications. With access to the MLS and connections within the industry, a fast-activating agent would get you in to see a home ahead of the crowd.
Integrity and honesty
Ultimately, an agent that has a passion for their work and integrity ingrained in their work ethic will guide you to the closing table with ease. While for some, the job has become a monotonous routine, other agents are excited to enlighten people on the real estate process. Agents that understand a person’s life savings may be going into this transaction will take care to advise accurately and honestly.
Real estate agents are in the unique position of being present at momentous occasions for many families. Buying a home is often a decision that affects people for years to come, and finding that excitement for every client will come with a passion for the job. Ensure the agent you hire is not only knowledgeable but also passionate when talking about your upcoming deal.
Are you looking for representation?
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