All Agents Are NOT Created Equal! What you need to know about choosing an Agent
By: Jerel Washington
Take it from me... it's wise to interview several agents...the same way any Top Agent will interview you! An inexperienced or untrained agent will just tell you what you want to hear. Ask yourself this question: If you were visiting a doctor after a major trauma, would you want him/her to tell you the truth about your situation or would you want to hear that everything was just perfect only to pass-out when you leave the emergency room?
There are three sections to this article: General, Buyers & Sellers. GENERAL: It's important to know that for the past 7-8 years most of New Jersey has experienced a strong "Seller's Market." As a home owner and seller this has proven to be a very exciting time. You were more than likely to get top dollar or better for your home with few contingencies.
Save time, aggravation, and disappointment:
Do yourself a favor and conduct a bit of research before working with an agent. Choose your Real Estate Agent the same way you choose your Doctor. Ask a friend for a referral, or interview like crazy. Either way look for a real connection.
However, if you were the buyer in this "Seller's Market," it goes without saying, you needed an experienced agent to help you get over the hurdles of purchasing a home in such a competitive marketplace. In this case, experience alone was not good enough. You needed an assertive agent. One who was not over-committed to multiple clients. You needed someone who would have been focused on your needs. Someone who was absolutely accountable to you!
BUYERS AGENT:
Without a doubt, your agent must be prepared for the opportunities. The good properties, if priced right, go really fast. You will be competing with other buyers, so make sure your agent knows how to get the job done... FAST!
WHAT KIND OF AGENT DO YOU WANT?
- How familiar is your agent with the type of neighborhood and price range you are considering?
- Are they liked by the other Top Agents in the area?
- Will they go out and preview on your behalf, or just send you out on a series of drive-by's?
- Will new properties be emailed to you immediately, in real time, or just when you call to remind them?
- How many clients are they currently working with?!?! This is a direct assault on the time they will spend with you.
Ask yourself this question....
- How effective could YOU be if you had to report to 5, 6 or 7 managers, all of whom with specific needs, demanding your undivided attention and required your best work without question?
In my experience... in order to be most effective and accountable to my clients, it is imperative that I NEVER take on more than a handful at a time. Quite simply this is "Quality Control-101."
I rely on my background as a Certified Project Manager to keep the ball moving forward and to conduct business with the professionalism my clients expect of me. ONLY an inexperienced agent would take on too much responsibility or make commitments they cannot keep causing an overloaded and poor quality work. Quality Service, Professionalism, Loyalty and Commitment are just a few of my core values.
Check out a potential agent's website, and ask the tough questions. Are they honest and knowledgeable? Are they able to repeat the information in person vs. what is written on the pages of their website? Any trustworthy agent should welcome and appreciate a thorough & thoughtful interview from a potential client. I do! I'm passionate about because I know most agents will NOT work for you!
Seller's Agent:
Well, the market is-a-changing... Is the ride over yet? I don't think so. Several industry sources say we are going to flatten-out or even
It would be my pleasure to meet with you to discuss your Real Estate goals.