When to Think Twice About Hiring a Real Estate Agent
by Linda FLEISCHER 12/31/2017
If you're thinking about putting your house on the market in the near future, then you've probably begun to research and compare real estate agents in your area. While experience, credentials, and training can make a big difference in a real estate agent's ability to produce results for you, there are other factors worth considering. For example, an agent's attitude, Web presence, and past performance are also indicators of their strengths, weaknesses, and marketing skills.
Here are a few "red flags" to watch out for in your search for a knowledgeable, proactive, and service-oriented real estate professional.
- The quality of their Web site: If a real estate agent has a Web site that looks disorganized, amateurish, or outdated, then that could speak volumes about their own flaws. In this day and age, a fully functional and professional-looking website is an essential marketing tool in the real estate business. Having access to the latest marketing tools and techniques is a vital aspect of selling your home in the shortest possible time. Agents who are not making full use of the Internet to market their listings are doing themselves and their clients a disservice. If they can't present themselves in the best possible light on the Internet, then it raises questions about their presentation style, in general. On the other hand, if a Realtor or real estate agent maintains an up-to-date, professional-looking website that is user-friendly and loaded with helpful information and search capabilities, then that's one indication they're conscientious, resourceful, and in touch with relevant technology. A timely and informative blog is another positive sign that they're tech-savvy and passionate about what they do for a living.
- Attitude and energy level: A great real estate agent has the ability to look at the "big picture" and realize that there will be peaks and valleys in every transaction and marketing campaign. If you choose them over the competition, you'll eventually depend on that agent to be a problem solver, a cheerleader, and a source of positive inspiration throughout the process. When you take into account how much is riding on the sale of your home, you realize the importance of selecting a well-organized, professional, and highly motivated agent. If you're interviewing one that spends too much time complaining about market conditions, other clients, or all the "red tape" involved in real estate transactions, then RUN -- don't walk -- to the nearest door! (That advice would, of course, need to be modified if you're meeting with them in your own home.) Here's the bottom line, though: To be able to capitalize on opportunities and produce the best possible results, a great real estate agent needs to maintain a positive attitude -- especially in the face of temporary setbacks.
The good news about real estate agents and Realtors is that the majority of them are ethical, motivated, and passionate about producing optimal results. As is the case with all professions, however, some are more positive, dedicated, and resourceful than others. That's why it pays to interview two or three real estate agents before settling on the one who's the best match for your timetable, your personality, and your individual needs.
If you're thinking about putting your house on the market in the near future, then you've probably begun to research and compare real estate agents in your area. While experience, credentials, and training can make a big difference in a real estate agent's ability to produce results for you, there are other factors worth considering. For example, an agent's attitude, Web presence, and past performance are also indicators of their strengths, weaknesses, and marketing skills.
Here are a few "red flags" to watch out for in your search for a knowledgeable, proactive, and service-oriented real estate professional.
