A real estate transaction involves a lot of different players, including appraisers, inspectors, contractors, bankers, mortgage lenders, closing attorneys, as well as prospective buyers and sellers. But, the people who coordinate the process – the real estate agents and brokers, are the people who can make all the difference in ensuring a smooth and successfult transaction.
At different times throughout the buying and/or selling process, your REALTOR® will be salesperson, marketer, advocate, business manager, consultant and negotiator just to name a few. There are a number of traits that great agents share.
1. KNOWLEDGE IS POWER. A great agent should stay up-to-date on on the latest news and topics in the local market. He/she should should utilize continuing education so they remain at the forefront of the real estate industry.
2. NETWORK OF CONNECTIONS. An agent should have a network of contacts within the market they serve so that when you need a referral or contact for a closing attorney, mortgage lender, plumber, electrician, handyman, landscaper, etc, they can give you point you in the right direction.
3. UNDERSTANDING OF THE LOCAL MARKET. Each housing market is unique and specific to a geographical area. Your REALTOR® should know what’s happening around the area and answer any specific questions you may have.
4. ATTENTION TO DETAIL. Paying close attention to the details is imperative in a real estate transaction. Your REALTOR® should be organized, a good communicator, and be attentive to their clients unique needs.
5. SHOULD BE LIKEABLE. A great REALTOR® doesn’t just sell properties; they sell themselves as well. It is important for an agent to be personable, trustworthy, honest, have a great attitude, and be a good listener. Sometimes, it can take a while – you want to make sure you are able to have a good relationship with your agent.
6. HAVE AN INTEREST IN HOUSING AND ARCHITECTURE. A person should love what they do, and a REALTOR® is no exception. If your agent has a true interest that could give you an advantage.
7. HUSTLE AND DETERMINATION. Great agents have a great work ethic. In order to have success, he/she should be determined to get their clients the best possible deal and be persuasive in their marketing efforts.
8. HONESTY AND INTEGRITY. Professional reputation is crucial to a long and successful career. A good agent should be trustworthy and honest and hold themselves to a personal and professional code of ethics.
9. PROBLEM SOLVER. A great agent should be a great problem solver. Things come up throughout the process that an agent should be able to effectively deal with to keep the transaction on schedule.
10. A CREATOR. An agent should be creative. Writing MLS remarks, showcasing pictures in a positve light, coming up with solutions to problems and marketing all require creativity and a good agent should have A LOT of it.
