When it comes to buying or selling a house, you probably want to make sure you are getting the best possible deal. You also want to make a decision that you will be happy with long-term. Oftentimes, the real estate market can be difficult to navigate, and you may not know how to accomplish your goals, such as price and timing. However, if you have a real estate agent guiding you through the process, you will have a major advantage.
When you start looking for a real estate agent, there are certain qualities that you should look for in the person you choose to work with. For example, it is important to work with someone who is knowledgeable about the local area and has experience with the type of transaction you are entering into. These are just a few of the things that will help the transaction go smoothly and make your real estate goals easier to accomplish.
In this post, we will discuss seven qualities to look for in a real estate agent and why these traits are so important.
7 Things to Look for in a Real Estate Agent
1. Excellent communication
A great real estate agent should keep you well-informed throughout the entire transaction process. This means checking in with you frequently to give updates, explain next steps, and answer any questions. An agent with excellent communication should also prioritize your needs, meaning they answer the phone, reply to texts and emails, and return calls in a timely manner. Just be sure to establish the time frames that both parties are available to correspond.
2. Good listening skills
Being a good listener goes hand-in-hand with excellent communication. A real estate agent who listens to you will better understand your wants, needs, and questions. This means you should look for an agent who exhibits patience and makes you feel comfortable enough to ask questions, express concerns, and discuss expectations. An agent who has good listening skills will not be pushy, and they will always consider your needs above their own.
3. Local market knowledge
As we mentioned before, you should always work with a local real estate agent who is knowledgeable about the area in which you intend to buy or sell. They should be able to tell you important details about the area, such as average home sale prices, new developments, reputable local businesses, traffic patterns, and nearby amenities such as shopping, dining, and recreation. Having this type of guidance can help buyers make more informed decisions. It is also advantageous to sellers because their agent can market their homes more effectively.
4. Transaction experience
Agents who have years of experience in real estate will be better equipped to handle difficult transactions and come up with solutions to problems along the way. For example, if you are an investor, you may want to work with an agent who has handled transactions for investment properties, as they will likely know what to look for and how to negotiate.
Experience is also valuable when buying or selling new construction, fixer-uppers, raw land, or luxury properties. In some cases, it is perfectly fine to work with a newer agent but make sure they have brokers or mentors who can fill in where their experience is lacking.
5. Flexibility
Top real estate agents are great at time management because they know the importance of being flexible for their clients. For example, if you have limited free time or an unpredictable schedule, you should work with an agent who can meet with you for appointments at a moment’s notice.
Oftentimes, newer agents are the most flexible because they are likely only working with one or two clients at a time. However, even the busiest agents should not put your needs on hold. If they cannot make an appointment, they should find a colleague or assistant to fill in.
6. Well-Connected
Throughout a real estate transaction, your agent is not the only person you will be working with. You may also use the services of a mortgage lender, an escrow agent or closing attorney, insurance providers, home inspectors, and other professionals. If you choose a well-connected real estate agent, they will be able to refer you to the best and most trusted service providers in the area.
If your agent is part of a large network, they may also be able to give you insight about upcoming houses for sale or properties that are not listed online. This can give you a major advantage in a competitive market.
7. Attention to detail
Lastly, make sure you choose a real estate agent who pays attention to detail. Real estate contracts are legally binding documents, which means you want an agent who is going to help you understand the fine print and remind you of legal responsibilities and deadlines.
A detail-oriented agent will also conduct thorough research and collect as much information as possible to help you with your decision-making. This could include details such as HOA fees and restrictions, taxes and utilities, upcoming developments and businesses, local schools, and information about flood zones.
Find a real estate agent near you
There are many good real estate agents to choose from, but if you look for the seven qualities above, you will find a great agent. If you are buying or selling in Macon, Georgia, or the surrounding area, you can start your search at Sheridan Solomon and Associates. Our local Macon agents are knowledgeable, experienced, and well-connected, among other great qualities.
When you choose Sheridan Solomon and Associates, you will be matched with one of our top agents in Middle Georgia. Feel free to contact us anytime to learn more or get connected with an agent right away.
Call us at (478) 746-2000 or reach out on our website, www.sheridansolomon.com. Be sure to check out our other blog posts for updates about the real estate market, tips for homeowners, and much more!