Are you in the market to buy or sell a home in Raleigh NC? Choosing the right real estate agent can make all the difference in your experience and the outcome of your transaction. With so many agents out there, it’s crucial to know what qualities to look for to ensure you find the perfect fit for your needs. Here are ten things to consider when selecting a real estate agent.
Local: Do They Live and Work in Your Community?
Real estate is highly local. One of the first things to look for in a real estate agent is familiarity with the local market. An agent who knows the ins and outs of the community you are selling or buying in can provide valuable insights into property values, market trends, and community amenities. A local REALTOR will also have an extensive network of professionals, which can make for a smoother, less stressful experience.
Experience: How Long Have They Been in Real Estate or a Related Field?
Experience matters when it comes to navigating the complexities of real estate transactions. Look for an agent with a proven track record of successful deals and a deep understanding of the buying or selling process.
Beyond simply years of experience, you also want an agent with expertise. It’s helpful if they have successful transactions under their belt that are similar to yours.
- If you’re selling a home, you want a listing agent with a verifiable track record of selling homes successfully during similar market conditions.
- If you’re buying a home, you want an agent who has helped lots of people buy homes in the same type of market conditions you’re buying in.
- If you’re looking to invest in real estate, you want an agent with extensive experience working with investors.
- If you’re building your dream home, you need an agent who has been down that complicated road before. They need to be able to guide you through the purchase of land, drawing up plans, finding a builder, inspections, and a lot more.
What To Consider in a New Real Estate Agent
A newer agent can do a great job if they’re on a supportive team with an experienced team leader who can help them navigate complex issues. In fact, a newer agent with a 5-star team behind them may be able give you more time and attention. If you’re considering a new agent with no reviews, read reviews for the rest of their team. Ask them how they would deal with difficult issues, and don’t be afraid to ask to chat with their team lead.
Additionally, ask the agent what other experience they have or what they did before getting their real estate license. Some “new” agents have actually been in the industry a long time. Or, they may have been in a career that gave them excellent experience to prepare them for real estate.
Full Time: Is Real Estate Their Career or Their Hobby?
Real estate is demanding, and it requires commitment. Choose an agent who is dedicated to their craft and can devote the time and attention needed to guide you through every step of the transaction.
That’s not to say a part-time agent can’t help you buy or sell a home successfully. However, if they’re working another job or two that doesn’t allow them to be available, you could lose out on a great home or offer. More on this below.
Available and Accessible: Can You Get in Touch With Them Easily?
Effective communication is key in real estate transactions. Your agent should be responsive to your inquiries and readily available to address any concerns or questions that may arise. This is within reason, of course. Your agent may not answer the phone at 2am, but if you email them at 2am, they should get back to you within a reasonable amount of time during business hours.
Teaming Up: Do They Have a Supportive Team?
Most Raleigh real estate agents work on a team of some kind. How that team functions depends on the team itself.
The Group: Most Raleigh real estate teams function more like a supportive group. You’re likely to work mainly with one agent and maybe an assistant when buying and selling. However, if your agent gets sick or has a family emergency, they will have a supportive colleague who can fill in to help you. Life happens to all of us, after all.
The Tag Team: Some teams function more like a tag team, with different people handling different types of transactions or parts of the deal. With this team, you may have a listing agent for the home you’re selling and a buyer’s agent to help you buy your next home. They may share an assistant or each have their own.
The team structure matters less than how well the team functions. Ask the agent(s) you’re considering who you will be working with. Think about whether or not you’re okay with having multiple points of contact or if you prefer to work with one main person.
Qualified: Are They Licensed and Certified To Help You?
Ensure that the agent you choose is properly licensed and has the necessary credentials to represent you effectively. Additional certifications or designations can indicate specialized expertise in areas such as negotiation, marketing, or buyer representation.
Reviews and References: Are They Highly Rated? Can They Provide References?
Before making a decision, take the time to research the agent’s reputation. Online reviews and testimonials from past clients can provide valuable insights into their professionalism, communication skills, and level of client satisfaction. Don’t be afraid to ask for references and look the agent up online.
Proven Strategies: How Will They Help You Buy or Sell A Home?
A successful real estate agent will have a solid marketing plan in place to help sellers maximize exposure for their property and attract qualified buyers. They will have a variety of strategies depending on the specific property and market conditions.
Similarly, buyers should look for an agent with a strategic approach to home buying. They should know about buyer assistance programs that could help you purchase a home. This is especially important during a competitive sellers’ market.
Communication Skills: Do They Listen To Your Needs and Communicate Effectively?
Clear and effective communication is essential throughout the buying or selling process. Choose an agent who listens attentively to your needs, explains complex concepts in a way that is easy to understand, and keeps you informed every step of the way.
Don’t be afraid to interview agents and ask questions to determine if they are a good fit.
Negotiation Skills: Will They Be a Strong Advocate For You?
Real estate transactions involve negotiation. From pricing to terms and repairs, there’s a lot that’s negotiable in real estate. Look for an agent who is skilled at advocating for your interests and can secure the best possible outcome.
Compatibility & Trust: Do You “Click” With Them?
Last but certainly not least, choose an agent with whom you feel comfortable and trust to represent your interests. Building a good rapport with your agent is essential since you’ll be working closely together throughout the transaction process and beyond. You want an agent you can confidently reach out to when you have a real estate related question even after the deal is done. You should trust them enough to refer friends and family to them, and you should be happy to call them when you’re ready to buy or sell again.
Finding “The One”
Finding the right real estate agent is a crucial step in achieving your real estate goals. By considering these ten qualities, you can make an informed decision and partner with an agent who will help you navigate the real estate market with confidence and success.
Once you find an amazing real estate agent, don’t lose their number! Make sure to stay in touch so that when you’re ready to buy or sell again, you don’t have to repeat the process of finding an agent.
If you’re looking for a REALTOR® in the Raleigh area or Eastern NC, give us a call at 919-887-5114. Our agents are happy to meet with you to determine if we’re the right fit for your real estate needs. We don’t use high-pressure sales tactics or gimmicks.
FAQs When Searching For A Real Estate Agent
That depends on the family member. If they’re legitimately a great REALTOR® and can separate business from family matters, then it can be okay to hire family. Don’t hire a real estate agent simply because they are family, though.
You can hire a new agent to help you buy or sell a home. Make sure they have a great team behind them who can support them in case any complex issues arise. You can also ask them what other experience they may have that helps them with real estate. Some new agents start in a related field, giving them unique experience and perspective.
Most agents work on some type of team. Some agents work within a group and some work on a “tag team” with tasks delegated to different members of the team. You may be listing your home with a listing agent and buying with a buyer’s agent. Ask any agent or team you’re hiring who you will be working with during your transaction. It’s okay to hire a team as long as you understand you may be communicating with different people. A good agent will explain this to you upfront.