When most of us hear the word realtor, certain words come to mind – aggressive, blunt, and maybe even pushy. When we think of what a realtor looks like, we picture a man in a suit and tie, or a woman dressed in a pencil skirt, heels, and a blouse. And when we try to imagine the home buying or selling experience, we retreat to our happy place.
The real estate world is full of realtors who live in and up to this image – which isn’t all together bad per se – just sometimes deceiving. Furthermore, real estate language and nomenclature make us want to believe the agent we’re working with is knowledgeable and trustworthy. But oftentimes beyond this façade, is simply a sales associate merely focused on profit rather than empathy and discernment.
So, in todays article, we want to list a few tips for helping homebuyers and sellers see through this vanity. Our hope is that when you pursue your next client-agent relationship, you’ll take a more discerning approach.
Tip 1. Look for an agent or real estate group who listen well
Not every agent will fit your needs. Before deciding to call the first realtor you come across, be sure to shop around. Ask friends for several references, and seek agents and real estate groups who offer a more in-depth consultative service. Spend time meeting with these people and evaluating their level of understanding to determine if they have the experience and resources to help go beyond what you may expect.
Tip 2. Look for an agent or real estate group comfortable pushing back
Let’s be honest, we all dream; but at the boundary of fantasy and reality is truth. And, when shopping for a new home and spending a small fortune, you’re much better off with an agent or group who can provide honest, objective feedback about your expectations, and who possesses empathy. Trust us when we say: evaluate agents and groups on their consultative approach and helpfulness just as much as you do their experience.
Tip 3. Look for an agent or real estate group who think “differently”
Along with several years of experience, look for agents or groups who are not just carbon copies, but who have taken the time to differentiate themselves from one another. Whether they have done this through their offerings, such as providing great technology or marketing services, or through community leadership, we urge you to find something unique and “different” about an agent or group and rank them higher on you list – don’t settle for anything less than spectacular.
Tip 4. Look for an agent or real estate group who empower decision-making
Working with real estate agents shouldn’t be a bore or induce uncertainty or anxiety. Great agents and groups are great leaders, and give buyers and sellers confidence and comfort. Working with the right agent who can provide you with resources or break down processes in a simple and effective way will not only save you time and sanity, but empower you to make great personal decisions when buying or selling your home.
Tip 5. Look for an agent or real estate group who is creative
Going outside the realm of logic and reason to find an agent or real estate group who is creative may be just what you need to sell or close on a home. When meeting with an agent or group for a consultation, ask them what marketing services they can offer and determine whether or not they have the faculty for thinking big, bold, and on their toes.
At the end of the day, we want everybody to break free from the stereotypical real estate experience. To do that, you must not only find an agent or group who listens well, but who also thinks differently, and can empower you to make great decisions. And, as icing on the cake, you should consider those who can be creative enough to make anything possible.
Bottom-line:
look for experience, added-service and leadership qualities in the agents or real estate groups who serve you.
For more information call Ray Gernhart and Associates at 571-992-0700 or contact us.
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