Choosing the right real estate agent is one of the most important decisions you’ll
make when buying or selling your home. The wrong agent could cost you tens of
thousands of dollars.
The top agents we spoke with all agreed that experience is the most critical factor,
but there are other things you should keep in mind as well.
Know Your Goals
When choosing a real estate agent, it is important to understand your goals. For
example, if you are buying your first home, it may be beneficial to work with an
agent who has experience helping new buyers. It is also a good idea to consider
whether you want to work with a part time or full time real estate agent.
New agents should also set SMART goals to help them navigate the pitfalls of
starting their real estate career. This will include determining their financial
independence (either by having another source of income or a savings plan),
earning potential and how quickly they will be able to close their first transaction.
They should also define their niche and choose a marketing strategy that fits their
unique skills and knowledge. Finally, they should establish a number of quality leads
that will ensure their success. The most successful agents close about four listings
per quarter. This is a realistic goal that most agents can achieve in their first year of
business.
Experience
A real estate agent must have experience with the ins and outs of the local market.
This includes negotiating contracts, vetting offers and pricing properties. Having this
type of experience helps an agent feel comfortable with the problems that often
arise during a transaction, and can help speed up the process.
Additionally, a good real estate agent must have excellent written communication
skills. This includes writing professional emails, contracts and marketing collateral.
They must also be able to listen carefully and respond effectively to clients.
Ask the agent to provide you with a few references from clients that they have
worked with in the past. These can be both buyers and sellers. Ask these clients to
explain the experience they had working with this agent, including any positive and
negative aspects of their interaction. You can use these insights to determine
whether this agent will be a good fit for you. In addition, you can look up real estate
agents on the state regulatory websites to see any complaints or disciplinary actions
against them.
Responsiveness
In the real estate industry, it’s critical for agents to be able to quickly respond to
calls, texts and emails. If an agent has a habit of taking days to get back to you, you
may miss out on properties and deals. During the interview process, make sure you
and the agent agree on the preferred mode of communication and that they can
meet your availability needs. You should also avoid an agent who makes every
conversation about them and their paycheck, which is a red flag that they’re not
looking out for your best interests. Read more https://www.sellmyhousecompany.com/we-buy-houses-everett-wa/
Ask potential agents to provide you with references from past clients who have
bought or sold homes in your desired area and price range. Ask these clients about
the agent’s responsiveness, assistance negotiating a good deal and overall support
preparing for closing. Also, find out if the agent works full-time or part-time. A fulltime
agent is more likely to be available when you need them.
Local Knowledge
Local market knowledge is a prerequisite for being successful as a real estate agent.
It involves being familiar with the rules and regulations in each area, and
understanding how different neighborhoods function. It’s also about having the
ability to provide nuanced advice to clients, considering the local culture and
neighborhood characteristics like schools, parks, and public transportation options.
Additionally, local market knowledge includes being aware of economic factors that
influence real estate trends in St. Louis. For example, employment rates and
average income affect demand for homes and their prices. Real estate agents with
strong local connections can offer their clients access to off-market listings and
reputable service providers.
Choosing the right real estate agent can make all the difference in a smooth and
seamless home buying or selling process. With over 1.3 million licensed real estate
agents in the US, it’s essential to interview candidates and evaluate their credentials
before selecting one to represent you.