Buying or selling a home is one of the biggest financial decisions a person can make, so it’s wise to work with a professional to guide you through the process. Hiring the right Realtor® can save you thousands and help you avoid costly mistakes, especially when the market is as hot as Phoenix real estate is right now, especially in the East Valley. So how do you choose a real estate agent? Here are some things to consider when picking your Realtor®.
Should I Use My Friend or Relative as My Real Estate Agent?
The quick answer to that question is it depends on how much you value that relationship, because love and money don’t always mix well!’
On average most people know eight real estate agents. These might be friends, family members, co-workers, etc. It may seem a good idea hiring someone you know, but there are pitfalls. Does your friend have the necessary experience to be your agent? Is your co-worker a full-time real estate agent? Do you really want a family member knowing your personal financial business? Are you willing to risk ruining the relationship if things don’t work out? All things considered, you should think carefully about who to choose as your agent. Never feel obligated to hire someone just because you know them.
Availability
Real estate is a time sensitive & competitive market, especially in 2021. It’s no exaggeration to say that your agent needs to be accessible & able to respond within just a few minutes. As a buyer this can make a huge difference in getting your offer submitted & accepted. As a seller, it’s important that your agent answers calls and emails with questions about your home from potential buyers in a timely manner.
Full Time Realtor®
Never choose a real estate agent who does this as their second job. Buying or selling a home is one of the biggest transactions you will ever make. How can a part-time realtor answer questions or handle problems if they’re at their primary job when issues come up? Having someone whose only job is working for their clients is key to making transactions go smoothly.
Choose a Real Estate Agent with Knowledge & Experience
Having a real estate license does not automatically mean an agent has the knowledge & experience necessary to do the best job. Choose a real estate agent who has handled numerous transactions in the local area and has an established track record; it will translate into a better experience for you. They will have the know-how to handle issues that can and do come up in any given transaction, such as inspections, repairs, appraisals, property line disputes…the list goes on and on.
Tech Savvy
In this day and age Realtors® must be tech savvy. It’s no longer enough to place a sign in front of a home for sale and put it in the MLS. Today’s realtors® must use all the tools in the tech toolbox including methods of communication, electronic signatures, social media, high-quality marketing tools, & internet marketing. Today’s tech savvy buyers are using the internet to search real estate sites for potential homes, and they expect their agent to do the same for them.
Problem Solver
Real estate is a demanding profession requiring long hours of hard work to close the deal; problem solving is a big part of that…done on a daily basis. Virtually every step of the home buying and/or selling process presents problems and you want an agent that has the tenacity and ability to solve those problems.
Honesty & Professionalism
These traits are the difference between the agent who “sells” and the agent who “cares.” The real estate profession demands the utmost and highest standards. An honest & professional real estate agent treats clients and all parties involved in the transaction with respect & honesty at the highest level.
Contact The Donnelly Group Today
The relationship between you and your real estate agent is an important one. It’s worth taking the time to figure out who is best suited to represent you and who you’ll want to work with throughout this exciting & emotional process. If you’re considering jumping into the metro Phoenix real estate market as a buyer or seller, make sure you partner with the best person for the job.
If you would like to talk with the Donnelly Group about your next move, call 480-792-9700 or email us today.
