Shawn DeLaat
The buying or selling of a house is one of the largest financial transactions that a person makes in their lifetime. Naturally, this process can be stressful, which is why having a real estate agent that is knowledgeable can make the experience as smooth as possible leaving clients with more time to enjoy the excitement. Having a professional real estate agent by your side means you can feel confident knowing they have your best interests at heart and will help you sell your home at top dollar or buy into the market at the best price. Before you get into the market for a real estate agent, you should prepare yourself for buying a home so your agent can get started right away. Here is a list of some of the most important things to consider when you are looking for a real estate agent and some helpful tips on choosing the right agent for you.
1. Real Estate Experience
It is important to pick a licensed real estate agent who has experience both in the market and with your type of transaction. Whether you are selling your home, a first-time home buyer or looking to retire it is important your real estate agent has knowledge of these transactions and can give you the best advice. Sometimes agents will have certifications that show the agent has taken additional training in certain areas including ABR (Accredited Buyer’s Representative), SRS (Seller Representative Specialist), SRES (Senior Real Estate Specialist) and more. There are over 25 different specialty designations that a real estate agent can obtain and can offer you a better understanding of their strengths in the market. Additionally, try asking about their recent properties that they have helped clients to buy or sell to get an idea of the types of homes they have experience with and if they fall into the same category that you are searching for.
2. Availability and Communication
Having a real estate agent that is actively involved in the market and committed to finding you the perfect home or buyers for your home is important. You want to be sure that you are able to contact your real estate agent at times that are convenient for you and they are there to answer any questions or concerns that may arise over the process. They should have time to work with you directly and be able to respond to calls, text messages and emails in a timely manner and ensure the lines of communication stay open. Clear communication is important because your real estate agent should understand your budget and needs for a home. If they are showing you homes that do not check off any of your boxes or are outside your price range, it can sometimes be an indicator that they do not have your best interests at heart. Ensure that your real estate agent will be available throughout the entire process of finding or selling a home. If for any reason they are not, make sure they have a team that is informed and available to contact and support you in their absence.
3. Expert on Local Market
Finding a real estate agent that is an expert in the local market is extremely important as they have insights and information about the area that another real estate agent may not have. A real estate agent with local knowledge will be able to help you understand the average value of the homes in the neighbourhood and the past trends and future predictions for the market to help you get the most out of your investment. These agents can also give insiders tips about the best neighbourhoods, the best schools and parks, attractions, commute times and hidden gems in the area.
4. Has an Effective Plan to Achieve your Goals
Having a unique, well thought out plan to help you buy or sell a home is an important part of your real estate agent’s job. You want to feel confident that they are invested in your goals and are effectively working towards achieving them. Some things to consider when looking at your real estate agents plan for selling your home include preparations such as will they be staging your home? Taking professional photos? Virtual tours? Additionally, looking at their experience with technology and their marketing strategies such as posting on social media, major MLS listing sites, local websites, hosting open houses and more. It is important they have a plan to get you the best price for your home. If you are buying a home look at how proactive they are in searching the market for available, upcoming or even exclusive listings that will meet your needs as a buyer. You want a real estate agent that is in your corner and ensuring that there are no missed opportunities when it comes to buying or selling your home.
5. Connection
Having a strong connection with your real estate agent is important. You want to feel comfortable communicating and expressing your feelings about properties and your desires so that your real estate agent can help find the truly perfect home. It is crucial that your real estate agent can understand your situation, keep you informed and educated about the market and give you advice on the best investment decisions that you can make. Having chemistry with your real estate agent is important for a successful and trusting relationship and will lead to the best results. When it comes to picking the right real estate agent for you, pick someone you trust and enjoy communicating with, go with your gut feeling.
Looking for a Real Estate Agent in Niagara Region? Contact Davids & DeLaat today!
If you are looking for real estate agents in the Niagara Region, consider talking to our team of experienced agents that are knowledgeable in local areas and dedicated to helping you buy or sell your home. We look forward to getting to know and develop personal relationships with every one of our clients. Visit our site today to learn more about our team of real estate agents in Niagara Region or take a look at our available houses for sale today!
