Buying a property is a life-changing investment. Granted, you want someone you can trust on your team, which begins with your right-hand person- the agent. Buyers are putting a lot in the hands of their agents; thus, they need someone they can trust to help them make a decision that serves them. The direction you go with your home buying or selling has a lot to do with the person you chose as your property agent. So, who should you hire? What traits should you look for in a real estate agent? Is the agent you have chosen the right person for the job? Don’t go into a panic with many questions. Here is some insight that will help determine whether your property agent is good enough.
Seven traits every buyer should look for in a realtor
1. Passion
In my opinion, being a good property agent goes far beyond the skills and experience you amass in the industry. Passion is a significant factor separating average agents from exceptional ones. Can you say your agent is driven to do their job? Do they love what they do? A good agent is not just good at their job but also loves what they do. Your agent’s passion should show in what they do.
2. Negotiation skills
A big part of what your agent will do on your behalf is negotiating. From the listing price to the selling price. How will you know that your agent is a good negotiator? Look at how they haggle over their commission; it should give you a peek at how they will handle negotiating other real estate matters.
3. Problem-solving skills
A lot could go wrong in a property transaction. Sure, a ton of experience in the industry is an asset in the profession, but a problem-solving mindset is just as important. A competent estate agent should be able to come up with solutions to issues that arise as you go.
4. Communication
Real estate and communication go hand in hand. The agent’s work will involve lots of talking. Is your agent a natural talker? Do they have good rapport? All these traits are essential if the realtor is going to network and negotiate successfully.
5. Networking
Real estate has a lot to do with who you know in the industry and how far your reach goes. How does your agent relate to other professionals in the same field? Networking is not an option in real estate. One needs to forge possible connections and hold quality conversations with other experts in the area.
6. Confidentiality
When dealing with your agent, confidentiality is critical. Your property agent should be able to keep discussions with you private. In most contracts, there is a confidentiality clause that ensures what you share with them remains confidential. How important is confidentiality to your agent? Their stance on confidentiality will tell you about their integrity and their commitment to you.
7. Attention to detail
Acquiring a property is probably a big deal, with some people investing their life savings in the asset. Therefore, you want someone hands-on in charge of the transaction. A good realtor can pay attention to detail; that way, they will identify issues and draft the contract without missing anything.
Are you making the right choice with your realtor? Who you choose to handle the buying and selling of your property will determine the transaction outcome. The agent’s knowledge and experience are essential to consider when hiring who to handle the buy or sell of a home; however, the qualities of your realtor are also crucial to look at. Above are some qualities to look for to ensure you have the best realtor by your side.
