How to Find a Great Real Estate Agent: Key Tips and Traits to Look For

Dear Friends & Colleagues,

A real estate advisor can be your greatest ally when buying or selling a home. However, only some advisors are a good fit for every client or every transaction. Several qualities distinguish a great real estate agent from the rest, from their industry expertise to their communication skills. Here are some essential traits to look for and steps to take to find the right advisor for you.

1. Look for Local Market Expertise

Every real estate market has unique trends, and working with an advisor with deep knowledge of your local area gives you an advantage. Ask potential agents about their experience with local properties similar to yours. They should be able to discuss recent trends, neighborhood amenities, school districts, property values, and nearby developments.

2. Verify Their Credentials and Track Record

Credentials matter in real estate, so verify the agent’s licensing. Professional designations like CRS (Certified Residential Specialist), ABR (Accredited Buyer’s Representative), or SRES (Seniors Real Estate Specialist) indicate advanced training and expertise. Reviewing an advisor’s sales history, online reviews, and references can also give you insight into their capabilities and reliability.

3. Seek a Strong Communicator

Buying or selling a home involves various steps, from negotiations to paperwork. An excellent real estate advisor keeps you in the loop at every stage, updates you on the market, and is accessible when needed. Consider the advisor’s preferred methods of communication and how promptly they respond to your questions.

4. Find an Agent with Strong Negotiation Skills

A strong negotiator will look out for your interests, helping you get the best deal, whether buying or selling. Ask potential advisors about recent transactions they’ve handled and how they approached negotiations. If they can share stories of wins and lessons learned, it shows their commitment to getting results.

5. Check Their Network and Resources

The best advisors have a network of professionals that can simplify the buying or selling process. From home inspectors and mortgage brokers to contractors and photographers, a well-connected agent will give you access to resources that add value to your experience. Ask about the types of professionals they collaborate with and how they can support your needs.

6. Evaluate Their Marketing Strategy (For Sellers)

If you’re selling, the advisor's marketing strategy is crucial to getting your home noticed. Ask about their use of digital marketing, social media, and professional photography or videography. A strong advisor will present a comprehensive plan that includes virtual tours, open houses, and creative strategies to attract serious buyers.

7. Trustworthiness and Professionalism

Trust and integrity are foundational in any real estate transaction. You should seek an advisor who puts your interests first, follows through on commitments, and respects your time. A trustworthy advisor will also be transparent about potential challenges and work to find the best solutions for you.

8. Gauge Their Understanding of Your Needs

Real estate transactions are personal. A good advisor takes time to understand your preferences, goals, and any concerns you may have. When speaking with potential agents, see if they ask meaningful questions about your vision and expectations. Their ability to listen and adapt is essential in finding the perfect property or buyer for you.

Steps to Finding the Right Advisor:

? Seek Referrals:?Ask friends, family, and colleagues if they can recommend agents they’ve had positive experiences with.

? Interview Multiple Agents: Don’t settle for the first advisor you meet. Interview a few agents to understand their approach and whether you feel comfortable with them.

? Review Online Profiles and Reviews:?Sites like Zillow,?Realtor.com, and Google Reviews can offer valuable insights.

? Meet Them in Person:?Personal chemistry is essential, so try to meet prospective agents face-to-face to gauge whether you’ll work well together.

Finding a good real estate agent takes time, but securing the right partner for your real estate journey is well worth the effort. Look for a combination of experience, integrity, and empathy. With the right advisor, you’ll have a trusted ally who will guide you with expertise and make your experience smooth, efficient, and rewarding.

Please feel free to contact me with questions.

Kind regards,

Tina Lucarelli - Global Real Estate Advisor

310-738-8089

DRE# 02102354