Transactions like selling or buying a home aren’t something you do every other day. Real estate transactions involve a significant amount of money. The entire process is complicated and without expert guidance, there’s a risk of making costly errors. So, to get the best possible deal while following all the legal formalities, you need to find a qualified real estate agent. Most buyers and sellers are unfamiliar with the real estate rules and procedures. Even if you’re a seasoned buyer or seller, the process is lengthy and it can be challenging to handle everything on your own. Hiring a real estate agent is important to get the best possible deal but finding the right professional can be daunting. When looking for a real estate agent, you will come across several brokers offering similar services. But an agent or broker offering home buying or selling services may not necessarily have the skills and experience needed for this job. So, what qualities do you need to look for in a real estate agent to avoid being fooled?
Some people work as part-time real estate agents. If a person is doing any other job besides working as a real estate agent, it means the person devotes less time to this profession. You need to find a specialist who has inside knowledge and connections to help you achieve your goal. However, not all real estate agents are the same. To choose the right agent, here are some qualities that you need to look for in a real estate agent.
Certifications, Recognitions, & Awards
The first quality you need to check is the license and certification. A certified real estate agent specializes in this profession and has the credentials needed to offer home buying or selling services. Look for designations like the Accredited Buyer’s Representative from the National Association of REALTORS. This type of credentials demonstrates expertise and in-depth understanding of the real estate industry. Besides certification, also look for awards and recognitions such as Realtor of the Year or Top Ranked Agent that verifies their skills and reliability.
Clear Communication
A reliable real estate agent provides as many details as possible on their website. The website of a genuine real estate agent tells a lot about the skills, expertise, and services of the agent. Moreover, when you schedule an initial consultation, the agent should communicate clearly. The best realtor maintains clear and regular communication with their clients. They will keep you informed about the market condition, as well as provide a clear price quote of their services.
Experience & Connections
Other important qualities to look for in real estate agents are industry experience and connections. New agents are good but experienced real estate agents know the market very well. With years of experience, they also establish connections with other professionals to speed up your buying or selling process. To check the experience level of an agent, ask questions like the price of other similar properties and nearby attractions, schools, restaurants, and more. To know more about the agent, check reviews on Google, Yelp, and Facebook to make an informed decision.