Working with a local real estate agent who has your best interest at heart can significantly increase the odds of having a positive outcome with your real estate transaction. Whether you’re buying or selling, a real estate transaction is probably the largest financial exchange you’ll undertake. Therefore, you want to work with someone who understands the serious nature of decisions made in the process. Your real estate agent should handle all aspects of the transaction professionally and ethically. Choosing a realtor who is a member of the National Association of Realtors will increase the probability that they will uphold professional standards. Similarly, it’s important to know if an agent is a buyer’s or seller’s agent. The following are signs that a real estate agent has your best interest at heart.
The Real Estate Agent Is Responsive
A real estate agent who values your business will take time to return messages within a reasonable time frame. There are innumerable circumstances that can create havoc in the real estate buying and selling process, and the agent needs to be accessible. An error in a listing could present a liability for a buyer, or negotiations may go awry and prevent closing. A proficient agent will remain in contact to verify that all information they have is correct and ensure the process is proceeding smoothly. If the agent needs to leave town, they will notify you in advance and provide an alternative contact in the event they cannot be reached.
The Real Estate Agent Listens Well
A conversation with your real estate agent shouldn’t be one-sided. They should be asking questions and genuinely interested in your wants and needs. Some realtors have a presentation they enjoy flaunting. While market statistics and the sales methodology they employ to sell a home are important, it doesn’t provide them with information about the improvements you’ve made in your home or the type of neighborhood you want live in. A real estate agent who has your best interest at heart will want to know your time frame for buying or selling and the type of home you most prefer. It’s important to note their ability to listen attentively at the onset rather than later in the process after they’ve gone against your instructions.
The Real Estate Agent is Reliable
A reputable real estate agent understands that you depend on them to process documentation, return calls to potential buyers, and schedule appointments. Those who have your best interest in mind will be punctual in returning calls at the scheduled time and show up promptly for meetings. An agent who frequently cancels or is late for showings is unprofessional and can jeopardize the sale. This can result in a home remaining on the market much longer than if a dedicated real estate agent was enlisted. Your real estate agent is also responsible for making sure purchase and sales agreements are accurate and processed before the offer expires. An agent acting in your best interest will be organized and process forms in a timely manner to prevent delays and meet deadlines..
The Real Estate Agent Makes You Feel Comfortable
A real estate agent who has your best interest at heart will make you feel at ease. They will avoid talking down to you when answering questions and explaining the buying or selling process. The agent will respect your preferences and refrain from criticizing your choices. At no time will they attempt to coerce you into making an offer when you are not ready. It’s imperative to remember that even though you might prefer to work with an agent who is abrupt or has an abrasive personality, many buyers may not, and it could cost you a sale.
The Real Estate Agent Is Thorough
It’s essential that your real estate agent does their due diligence to advise you properly. A comparative market analysis can provide information that will enable you to price your home to sell quickly. They will also be knowledgeable about the neighborhoods in the area and can inform you about the high rise condominium that is about to be built across the street from the home you wanted to purchase for its lake view. If your real estate agent is thorough, they have contacts who are mortgage brokers, insurance agents and contractors. An agent with your best interest in mind will recommend services that can save you money on your mortgage or other services.
The Real Estate Agent Is Honest and Ethical
Honesty and integrity are vitally important in any type of business relationship. Building trust is essential to establishing and progressing toward a mutually beneficial objective. A real estate agent who is acting in your best interest will make the necessary recommendations on contractual agreements and disclose any information that can have a negative impact on a property’s value. They will be honest with you even when they know it isn’t something you want to hear. Be wary of agents who make exaggerated claims or participate in fraudulent activities. If they are engaging in unethical behavior with someone else, there is no reason to think they would not do the same to you.
The Real Estate Agent Keeps You Informed
Keeping the lines of communication open throughout the home buying and selling process is crucial to ensure that each detail receives adequate attention. With this in mind, your real estate agent will keep you informed during each step of the process. They will notify you immediately if more information is needed to process closing documents or of any events that are causing delays. An agent with your best interest in mind will ensure that you have access to offers, inspection reports and appraisals as soon as they are available.
2 Point Highlight
Working with a local real estate agent who has your best interest at heart can significantly increase the odds of having a positive outcome with your real estate transaction.
Your real estate agent should handle all aspects of the transaction professionally and ethically.
