The Killer Instinct In Real Estate

A Realtor who was recently working with buyers called the listing agent of one of the properties that the buyers were interested in. Her buyers had questions about the home. After answering the questions, the listing agent was about to hang up when the other agent informed him that her buyers are considering making an offer.  “OK,” the agent responded, “Just call my cell, I’m leaving tomorrow for Florida for 5 months. I’ll be back in April.” It came apparent that, for whatever reason, pleasure was more a priority for this agent than was success.

The Seventy Percent Statistic

There’s a reason that 70% of the Realtors leave the business within one year. There are certain things that are prevalent among most who are successful. One of them is hunger, either for success or to make a living. Sometimes both.  Another is having a killer instinct. Famed basketball star Michael Jordan once said, “To be successful you have to be selfish, or else you never achieve. And once you get to your highest level, then you have to be unselfish. Stay reachable. Stay in touch. Don’t isolate.”  To a certain degree, perhaps a large degree, one has to take it personally when they lose an opportunity.

The Seller’s List

Knowing what I now know, there are certain things that I would look for in an agent if I weren’t in the real estate business and selling my home. I would look for one:

1.     Who is full time.

2.     Who is conscientious and always trying to do what is in the best interest of their client.

3.     Is well trained in negotiating.

4.     Has a professional demeanor

5.     Whose work is highly regarded by other Realtors.

6.     Is skilled at promotion.

7.     Is a strong salesperson.

8.     Who gives good insight into where attention should be given in preparing a home for sale.

9.     Is accurate with their pricing (This can be determined by their sale price/list price ratio.)

10.   Has a track record of getting their listings sold. (Ask them what percentage of their listings actually close.)

What would be the most important trait to you if you were selling your home?

Any additional traits that are not listed above?