How do you stand out as a first-time home buyer agent?

Communication is key. Sharing your knowledge & guidance with a new home buyer is just the beginning to a working relationship that eventually turns into friendship and a lifelong client! They will need your utmost attention to show them the ropes with kid gloves, knowing they have never been down this road before--answer their calls, keep them informed and start with education on the process so they know what to expect. As agents, we are very familiar with the entire process so walk them through the steps, time frames, set their expectations right off the bat. They will in turn respect and appreciate your wealth of knowledge which will make for a smooth transaction!

As a first time buyer myself in 1993, I developed a home search strategy to ensure success. Trust is the foundation between the buyer and their agent, much like a doctor or lawyer. The purchase of a first home is a monumental occasion and should be treated as such. My favorite part is handing keys to the happy new homeowners.

To stand out as a first-time homebuyer's agent, offer personalized guidance, simplify the process, educate about finances and options, connect them with reliable lenders, recommend trusted inspectors, and provide clear communication. Tailor your approach to their needs, address concerns promptly, and offer post-purchase support. Building trust, expertise, and a stress-free experience sets you apart and fosters lasting client relationships.

We often caught in our own bubble and speaking in our RE jargon not realizing that FTHB has no clue what we are talking about. Take it down a notch and explain in layman’s term at buyer consultation.

From a mortgage lender perspective - it’s crucial that you have your first time home buyer link up with a trusted mortgage professional to set the right expectations of what the can afford and what loan program will best fit their needs. So many think you have to have 20% down to buy a home but that’s not true. There are several 100% and lower down payment loans available. Working with a lender who has experience and access to those loans will help build trust with your buyers and will bring more value as an agent to ensure a smooth purchase process from the start to closing!

A practice that has become the exception and no longer the rule is that of explaining an agreement to your customer. Technology has replaced the meeting at the kitchen table to over each contingency in the agreement and lets you prepare them for each every step. Educating a customer regarding the inspection and explaining termites will keep them from being side swiped if the termites are found. Along with plumbing, electrical, roof and title issues. Let them know before it shows up.

Educating first time homebuyers is absolutely key. I have seen transactions fall apart simply because buyers had misconceptions about their duties/ privileges under the contract, or were not made clear about their options, or worse - they were not properly guided when they needed it the most. As a seasoned title agent I see that some buyers are not aware we can be a great source of help and information. We are here for everyone’s benefit and yet our skills and knowledge are not leveraged. Some real estate agents seem reluctant to fully bring us into the fold fearing we will impede instead of help. But that’s never true when a title agent is a seasoned professional able to establish trustworthy relationships with buyers and their agents.

Educating clients, especially first time buyers is a very important part of the process. Having the patience and understanding to know that although buyers today do their best to become knowledgeable about the process, there is still a lot they don't know. A lot that they think they know but aren't quite sure. Taking the time to explain everything as we go through the process of figuring out what they really want and really need and what is really important. . Answering their questions and encouraging them to ask if there is anything that they are not sure of, anything even if they think they know but want reassurance. It's all part of the process to get them confidently where they want to be. Happy in their new home.

Excellent point and keep in mind that "timely" is also most important. Imaginations run wild when someone is concerned and waiting for a response.

As a title agent I often communicate extremely important, time sensitive information. Prompt communication, fast responses and proper channels are absolutely crucial. Some people do not check their email as often as needed during the home buying process. Some only respond to texts or WhatsApp messages! Being able to communicate fast and in the ways a buyer prefers is of the outmost importance. The title industry has been slow to catch up on this, with most title companies not available outside of business hours, or not communicating via the latest technology. Recommend those which will tailor their services to the needs of your first time home buyers.

Communicating well goes hand in hand with educating buyers. Discussing details as we go, pointing things out, sharing perspectives, thinking of and bringing up all of the "what ifs" that they might be thinking. Encouraging buyers to ask when there is anything they are wondering about but aren't quite sure. Best to ask the expert and be sure than it is to wonder or ask the wrong person and get the wrong answer. Good communication both ways from start to finish is hugely important and encouraged. Buyers feel more informed, more confident and a whole lot less stressed about the experience. "Wow, that was a lot easier and less stressful than we thought it would be" is a phrase we end up hearing a lot. That's how it's supposed to be.

When the time comes to make an offer, it can be daunting. It is important to talk about that seemingly daunting time long before it actually happens. Best to be prepared, so it is good to discuss scenarios and to look at what other simlar properties have sold for and what they were listed at. Getting to know your segment of the market is the key there. Having knowledge brings confidence. Good communication and providing information about the negotiation process early on is paramount for when that not so daunting time comes. Some good coaching from an expert will help ease the stress and get you the best deal.

From the day we first meet to the day you get the keys to your first home, to the day you are ready to move up to your next home, and your next. Following up an following through with what is expected and then some. It is important that you know what is expected and get exactly that, and then some. Long term and even lifelong relationships are part of a great agents goals. That and the referral of people you know. Following up, following through leads to that so important repeat and referral part of our business.

Providing a clear roadmap to help first-time buyers achieve their goals. Setting their expectations at the very beginning and all along the process is critical and will help calm their anxiety and make for a smooth, easy transition to homeownership. Never, ever by-pass the buyer consultation!

Standing out as a buyers agent means demonstrating to prospective clients that you bring value to the buying process. One great way to bring value to clients (and build a strong referral network) is to make introductions with reputable business partners whom you would trust if you were buying a home. The typical buyer will need recommendations for an attorney, home inspector, a title company, and even some services after closing (lawn care, oil service, contracting). Use this opportunity to recommend other excellent professionals you would trust! Buyers will always remember great service and who gave them that recommendation. You have the opportunity to become not just a buyers agent, but their point person for all things home related!