Top 10 Attributes of a Great Agent
What are the top 10 attributes of a great real estate agent?
1. Honest
A great agent will tell you what you need to hear which isn’t always what you want to hear. Nobody wants to be told that their house is overpriced or that their offer is not realistic. An honest agent may make you feel uncomfortable at some points in the process but can save you a lot of time and money overall.
2. Effective Communication Skills
Leveraging all the latest technology, social media savvy, able to solve problems and issues as they arise, and consistently communicating with you every step of the way and listening to your wants and needs.
3. Local knowledge
Your agent should be extremely familiar with the neighborhood that you are working in. In addition to local real estate information, your agent’s knowledge should also encompass schools, recreation facilities, amenities and places of worship.
4. Market Stats
The best agents are hyper familiar with the fine details of their market. They should be able to tell you how many listings are available in your area, how many have sold in the last 3 months, current market trends and applicable ratios. They should have the local market stats at their fingertips at all times. Real estate is a numbers game – make sure you are dealing with a numbers expert.
5. Excellent Negotiation Skills
Collaborative, tenacious, aggressive, strategic, confident, exceptional communicator, patient, analytical, prepared, and well versed in contract law. A great 3rd party negotiator can almost always get you more then you could get without help.
6. Well Connected
A real estate transaction will require many different experts to help you get to the finish line. A well-connected agent will be able to provide a list of ancillary service providers who can help with such things as mortgage, home inspection, contractors, legal advice and more.
7. Hardworking and Focused
Make sure you are dealing with an agent who is dedicated to working full time as a professional REALTOR®. Part-time agents may not be available when you need them to be.
8. Experienced
A freshly licenced REALTOR® might do a wonderful job and will have up-to- date training but those in the business 5 years or longer bring more practical experience to the table to get you the best deal.
9. Professional Image
An agent should take pride in the image they project in the community and put their best foot forward. You should expect them to be on time, professionally dressed, and properly organized for all appointments.
10. Committed (even after the sale)
A great agent will provide ongoing service before, during and after the sale. They will be there to help you with your real estate needs and will keep in touch. You should feel comfortable referring your friends and family to them.