10 Things to Look for in a Real Estate Agent
10 Things to Look for in a Real Estate Agent
When you’re looking to buy or sell a home, you may be confused about where to start. This is where having the help of a professional who’s done it want times before comes in handy. This is how agents make a living, helping people navigate through the process or home buying process. Like many other industries there are some agents who are better than others but the last thing you want to do is select the wrong one. Here are a couple of quick tips to look for when selecting a real estate agent.
Honest
Although this is a bit of a no brainer, it need not go without mentioning. Honesty and integrity are two very important qualities of a top-producing agent. A good agent would not compromise their integrity over any amount of money and will be upfront with you. Once a client relationship has started (by signing a formal representation agreement) It will be in your best interest to be honest and upfront with your agent so that they can use their expertise to best serve you throughout the entire process..
Problem Solver
I have a saying “Problem Solvers Get Paid”… Your agent should be someone who is a creative problem solver. Someone who can handle chaos with style and grace. Real estate transactions are everything but easy however an agent who can stay calm can keep you calm when you.
Check out the signature “Problem Solvers” T-Shirt.
Engaging/ Likable
Your agent should be likable and engaging should be an expert at knowing how to draw people him. How to effectively capture the attention of an audience with great conversational skills. They should have the type of personality that helps you feel comfortable.
Attention to Detail
Its no secret real estate agents are pretty well, usually between 3-6% of the purchase or selling price of the home. This is a substantial amount of money that being said it is reasonable to expect the person earning it to pay very close attention to the details. You will find agents out there that charge less or offer a flat fee however as life has taught me all so well I believe you get what you pay for. A well paid agent has no reason not to have all basis covered. The agent is paid to think about all the details that don’t come across your mind every day because it is not everyday that you purchase or sell a home. That is everything from moving your car out of the driveway for photos, or hiding the trash cans when the home is being shown. While these are all small things, they have subconscious effects on your potential buyers.
Motivated
A great agent is motivated by the opportunity to serve. While the checks are great, helping people reach their goals is something that will never get old. A good agent is motivated well beyond money and that will show in their ability to serve you.
Knowledgeable
Always be learning is our motto and I believe the same to be true for the top agents I know. An agent who loves to learn about real estate also will have the answers to get you through the buy or sell of a property. If they don’t have the answer you can be sure they know where to find it.
Find an agent who is active in sharing information at events and seminars. An agent who is verse is really a great asset when purchasing real estate in North Carolina.
Proactive
As a former athlete theres is something to be said about the players who see the plays develop before they happen, giving them a chance to be proactive rather than reactive. Having an agent who’s on the offense, thinking ahead who can help gently push the ball forward and keep it rolling is exactly what every team needs. Top agents make it happen they don’t wait for it to happen.
Be Well Connected
Top Agents are well connected and are not scared of making new connections on the fly. They usually have something of value or know how to provide value to just about anyone making connections easy to come by.
An agent with plentiful connections is going to get your house sold quicker and for more money or they will get you access to inventory that everyone else has to wait for.
These agents will have great recommendations for cleaning, staging, financing and repair work.
They Listen
A good agent knows when it is time to talk versus when it is time to listen. You know the saying…”God gave you two ears and one mouth for a reason.” Top producing understand the importance of listening effectively. A good listener will understand how to serve you better often exceeding expectations.
Keep in mind, you are hiring a professional for a reason, and you should always give their opinion some thought when making a decisions about your house.
They Have References or Relative Experience
Great agents will most certainly always have references. However this doesn’t mean a new agent can’t be a good one. If you run into an agent with limited experience but want to give him a shot ask them for references that show relative experience. Look for situations where character, and integrity show clearly, these things are transferable and signs of a great agent.
Buying or selling real estate is a journey I would love to help you through. My job as your agent is to put your needs and wants above my own and make sure your interest is being protected at all times. Learn more about me.