Buying or selling a home doesn’t have to be stressful. Look for a reliable and trustworthy agent who can help you achieve your goals.
Here’s what to look for in a Realtor:
- Experience
An agent should have professional experience – there’s simply no substitute for it. An agent who has been around for several years can be expected to know the market better than one who is wet behind the ears. So find an agent who has considerable experience in handling real estate transactions.
- Local Expertise
An agent has to know the neighborhood well. A local expert is one who has been serving clients in the area for years, as well as someone who is a life-long resident. They can give you inside information on listings and comparable properties in the neighborhood you’re interested in.
- Attention to Detail
An agent has to be organized – with so many requirements during the buying or selling process, it’s very easy to drop the ball. That’s why your Realtor should be able to handle the transaction with ease, taking care of paperwork and keeping you updated on key developments. They should help you make the most of your time and energy by being efficient.
- Availability
The agent has to return calls and emails ASAP – if you’re having a difficult time reaching your agent, it means that you are not their top priority. When the largest investment of your life is on the line, the last thing you want is to sit around waiting to hear back from your agent.
- Empathy
An agent should know that buying and selling a home can be an overwhelming experience. During this time, you need an agent who understands your needs. They should empathize with your present circumstances. Whether you’re looking for the right home or trying to get a return on investment, find someone who knows how to listen and take stock of your situation.
- Negotiation Skills
Am agent should be your advocate during the buying and selling process. As your partner, they should protect your interests and make the arrangement as favorable to you as possible. If you get lowball offers, for instance, it is your agent’s job to negotiate and bring those offers up to an acceptable price. Likewise, if you’re looking for a home, the agent should make sure that you’re not overpaying for one, and that the property is everything you expect it to be.
- Conflict Resolution Skills
An agent should know how to handle and resolve arguments. Sometimes conflict just can’t be avoided, whether it’s between you and the other party, or you and your own Realtor. That’s just how it is when it comes to lengthy and stressful real estate transactions. That’s why you need a professional who can calm the waters and keep all parties focused on the task at hand.
- Connections
Any agent has to have the connections needed to get a listing off the ground. They should be able to present you with listings that you otherwise wouldn’t have any access to. A well-connected Realtor can help you find coveted listings and qualified buyers for your home. They can talk to you about open houses in the area, or give your property maximum exposure.
Are you buying or selling your home in Central New Jersey? Pagnotta Homes will be happy to assist you. Call them at 908.436.7947.
