What You Should Expect from a Good Real Estate Agent
Similar to any other profession, there are good Real Estate Agents; and there are, well, not so good Real Estate Agents. How do you know if you're hiring a powerhouse or a flop?
The first way to know if you've got a good agent is to evaluate the actions and duties that an excellent agent should manage for a client. If you're not quite sure, what to look for, we took the time to compile a helpful list, so you didn't have to.
Ask you about your needs and wants
A good agent should take the time to ask you questions, to learn your specific situation, needs, desires, and lifestyle. They should go over your 'must-haves' and your 'wishlist' features for residence. Starting with the most important is where you would like to live. A good Real Estate agent should ask about features you need in a home, features you want to avoid, what kind of community you prefer, etc. Your representative should never make any assumptions when it comes to needs while shopping for a home.
Recommend trusted referrals
One of the first business questions a Real Estate Agent should be asking their client is how they plan on purchasing the house (ie Mortgage or Cash). If the buyer answers with a loan; the Real Estate Agent should follow up with asking if a pre-approval has already been obtained. If the client says that they haven't yet met with a mortgage lender; then a list of recommendations should be provided to the buyer. Since Real Estate Agents work on transactions everyday, they have contacts they trust to help facilitate a smooth transaction from very beginning to the very end.
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The Fun Part! Finding the One
Many buyers think finding the perfect house is as easy as looking at photos online. The internet is a great way to start, but it's not the only way to shop. Your Real Estate Agent should provide a MLS portal, in order to search accurate information, plus be alerted when something with your criteria hits the market. After locating a potential home online, it's recommended to view the home in person. Perfect pictures doesn't equate to a perfect house.
It's not unusual for buyers to look at many houses before finding the right one. An agent should never pressure you into settling. Keep in mind you have to live there, the agent doesn't. Consequently a seasoned Real Estate Agent should help plan alternate options if needed.
For Sellers: Price the home correctly
Arguably the most important part of selling a home, is pricing it correctly from the beginning. A great Real Estate Agent's first move should be providing you with comparable market data, and a recommended listing price. Contrary to popular belief, the agent should not be setting the price, but educating the seller on how to price their home.
Some agents like to promise prospective sellers unrealistic sales prices, just to get the listing. This can result in multiple price reductions, wasted time, and upset sellers. The first few days on the market are usually the most vital, for bringing in qualified buyers.
Help navigate any issues
Excellent Real Estate agents have built a strong team of trusted resources and experts to assist in a smooth transaction. Once a home is located and put under contract, the Real Estate Agent should be offering recommendations on title companies, escrow officers, inspectors, contractors or any other necessities.
As much as we hope that no issues will arise in a transaction, that's not always the case. Problems can come in many forms including (but not limited to) poorly written contracts, inspection issues, uncooperative parties, and low appraisals. Often times issues can be resolved before they actually occur, with education, experience, and communication. This is why working with a proactive expert is so vital.
You're hiring an expert, make sure they are an expert.
