Selling or buying a home is likely one of the largest personal transactions you’ll ever make, and trusting someone with the “keys” to that sale or purchase can be a bit scary — especially if you’re not sure that your realtor is “the one.”
There are, however, several key criteria that will help you tell if your realtor is one of the good ones right off the bat. All it requires on your part is a little bit of homework (no pun intended). Here’s how to pick the best real estate agent for you!
They’re likable
From a business standpoint, this might seem like the least important thing. After all, it’s a job well done you’re after, and you don’t have to be best friends when all is said and done. But most people make decisions based on their feelings, so find a real estate agent you like!
A working one or not, this is a relationship, and while you don’t have to invite your agent to dinner parties, you should still enjoy the time you spend together selling or buying your home. You’ll feel much better about the whole process afterward.
They’re responsive
It can be agonizing if you’re wanting to go see a very hot property, but it takes your realtor hours or days to return your call or text. That simply won’t do!
Choose a realtor who is always there for you — communication is the key to any great relationship. With such an enormous financial transaction looming, you don’t want to be left waiting for answers.
They advise you to get pre-approved
Mortgage pre-approval is one of the best steps you can take when buying a home. It lets you know where your budget stands, and it shows sellers that you’re serious about buying their home, which can then make it more likely that your offer will be accepted.
Great realtors understand the importance of a mortgage pre-approval (we even have another blog post about it!), so if one of the first pieces of advice you receive is “get a pre-approval,” you know you’re probably in good hands.
They offer ways for your to save money
At this point, it’s natural for people to be wary of salespeople, and most buyers and sellers see real estate agents as just that, so it’s important to find an agent who is in it with your best interests in mind.
If your agent offers money-saving tips regarding mortgage payments, possible government incentive programs, tax payment advice, life insurance, and more, then you know they’re working for you. It could not only save you thousands of dollars — it means you’re working with a great agent.
They’re an expert in the local market
If you’re buying or selling a home in Winnipeg, it’s important to work with an agent who is well-versed in the Winnipeg (and even Manitoba at large) market. They’ll help you find the neighbourhood and home that best suits your family, lifestyle, and budget, and even better, they’ll have extensive knowledge of possible issues based on location.
This knowledge will help get you the best price possible on your sale and the best deal possible if you’re buying a home.
They understand technology
Now, more than ever, people are searching for homes online, so an agent who knows how to take full advantage of everything the web has a significant advantage in marketing your home.
From search engine optimization (SEO) and online advertising for their own website to engaging social media posts and an understanding of search trends, a tech-savvy real estate agent will help your home stand out online.
This also extends into photography. A great agent knows how to take stunning photos of your home using a keen understanding of digital photography, whether that’s when to use a wide-angle lens or making sure all photos are optimized for mobile viewing.
They have a strategy in mind
Every home sale or purchase is different, so pick an agent who can deliver you a solid plan to help you reach your goals. This can include strategic open houses, setting an offers date instead of accepting them as received, certain online strategies, and more.
You don’t want a “We’ll see what happens” realtor. You want an agent who has a clear plan that involves a timeline for each tactic. This is where extensive knowledge of the local market comes in handy.
They’re transparent
Great agents simply tell it like it is. You have an emotional attachment to your home, so you may put a higher price on it than what is acceptable based on comparable sales or than buyers are willing to pay. An exceptional realtor understands that emotional relationship, while providing an encouraging dose of realism.
It’s important to know exactly what to expect when selling or buying your home, and you want a realtor who isn’t afraid to be honest (without coming across as insensitive).
They treat you as a lifelong client
You know you’re not just a number, and a great realtor knows that too. Choose a realtor who will call or text you to make sure possession day went well, to check if their recommendation for a real estate lawyer was what you needed, and to make sure you’re happy with your home.
We’re all human, and it’s that connection that can make a good experience great.
Ready to find a realtor?
For honest, transparent, approachable realtor services, call or text Gino Cipriano today at 204-955-5853. He’s incredibly responsive and offers a comfortable, personable experience that will not only challenge your idea of what a great realtor can be, but will help you sell your home for the best possible price or find you a home that best suits your needs.
Let’s chat — no pressure.