By Dixie Somers
When you're looking for a new home, the absolute best asset to have is a real estate agent that you can trust. After all, this person will be helping you make one of the biggest financial decisions of your life. But with so many agents out there, how can you be sure you're choosing the right one? Here are some key qualities to look for in a top-notch real estate agent.
They Have Plenty of Experience
It's always best to work with an experienced agent who has closed dozens—or even hundreds—of deals. This shows that they know what they're doing and that they have a successful track record. Be sure to ask about an agent's experience during your initial meeting so you can get an idea of their qualifications.
Look for an agent who has been in the business for several years and has a proven track record of successful sales. Check to see if they belong to any industry organizations or have achieved any awards or certifications. Interview potential agents and ask them questions about their specific experience and what they can do to ensure you get the best possible deal. Finally, make sure you feel comfortable with the agent and that they are genuinely interested in helping you find your ideal home.
They Have Your Best Interests at Heart
A good real estate agent will always have your best interests at heart. That means they'll be honest with you about both the good and bad aspects of each property you look at. They won't try to pressure you into making an offer on a home that's not right for you just so they can make a quick commission. Whether you’re a DIY-er looking for a fixer-upper or looking to upgrade your lifestyle on luxury high-end properties, a good real estate agent will know what you want and take you there without hesitation.
They're Knowledgeable About the Area
When you're looking for a new home, it's important to find an agent who knows the area well. They should be familiar with the neighborhoods, schools, and amenities that are important to you. They'll also be able to tell you things like whether or not a particular neighborhood is likely to experience future growth.
A good real estate agent should have an in-depth knowledge of not just the area physically, but also the local market, including recent sales data and trends. They should be able to provide advice on potential neighborhoods and properties that suit your needs, as well as understand zoning regulations, tax implications, and other legal aspects of buying or selling a home. A great real estate agent will also be proactive in their approach and have a keen eye for spotting potential issues or opportunities that could impact your purchase. They should also be willing to go the extra mile, offering resources and services such as home inspections, mortgage advice, and even contract negotiation assistance.
They Have a Great Recommendation
A great way to find a reliable real estate agent is to get recommendations from people you know. Ask your friends, family, and coworkers about their experience with agents in the area. Look for someone who has consistently delivered good results for their clients and can provide references if necessary. When you've found an agent that comes highly recommended, take the time to interview them and ask about their experience, qualifications, and strategy. This will help ensure that you have the best possible agent working with you as you search for your new home.
Leaving a review for a good real estate agent is one of the best ways to help other buyers or sellers find an excellent agent. When writing a review, provide as much detail as possible, including things like the agent's knowledge of the area, their helpfulness throughout the process, and any additional services they provided that made your experience even better. Reviews are invaluable in helping good agents get more business and we encourage everyone to take a few moments to share their positive experiences—including your own.
They Understand Your Needs
A top-notch real estate agent should take the time to understand your needs and preferences before even beginning a search for a new home. They should listen thoughtfully and intently when you describe your needs, as well as your dream home. They should be patient and willing to answer any questions you have, so that you can make an informed decision in the end. Make sure to express your goals clearly and let them know what kind of home you're looking for. With an experienced agent on your side, you'll be able to find the perfect home faster and with far less stress.
They Communicate Well
Communication is key in any relationship—and that includes the relationship between you and your real estate agent. You should feel comfortable reaching out to them with any questions or concerns you have along the way. And when they do communicate with you, they should be clear and concise so there's no room for miscommunication or misunderstandings. Look for an agent who communicates clearly, promptly answers your calls and emails, gives you their full attention, and treats you with respect.
They Have a Strong Network
A good real estate agent will have built up a strong network of industry contacts over the years. This includes other agents, loan officers, home inspectors, furniture and appliance sellers, and more. Having this network gives them the ability to get things done quickly and efficiently—which is exactly what you want when buying a home.
These are just a few of the qualities you should look for in a top-notch real estate agent when buying a home. By finding someone who has your best interests at heart, is knowledgeable about the area, has plenty of experience, communicates well, and has built up a strong network, you'll increase your chances of having a positive experience overall—and finding the perfect home for your needs in the process!
Dixie Somers is a freelance writer who loves to write for business, health, and women’s interests. She lives in Arizona with her husband and three beautiful daughters.
