If you’re planning on buying or selling a home any time soon, you’re likely going to embark on one of your biggest financial transactions ever. During this process, a real estate agent will know the ins and outs of the business to protect you and will enhance this exciting experience in a positive way.
Finding a real estate agent in your area won’t be a problem as there are undoubtedly signages for a different agent on every street corner. Choosing the best real estate agent for you and your needs is the challenge. You will want to meet with multiple agents in person before settling for your best fit. During this time, there are some key factors to look for and keep in mind that will help you make the best choices for you, your family and your investment.
Here are a few key qualities about what makes a good real estate agent:
Local Area Knowledge
Whether you’re selling or buying, you’ll need a real estate agent that is experienced in your area. Ideally, your agent will have successfully helped clients sell and buy in your area of interest or where you would like to buy. Having experience in a particular area also means having strong, well-established connections to other agents in the neighbourhood. Your agent will know the streets and the atmosphere in your area and will ideally be involved in the community.
Honesty & Integrity
Your buying or selling experience will be a lot smoother if you know what to expect. An honest real estate agent will tell it like it is and will not set you up for surprises. An agent that sugarcoats things or isn’t up front with you when they disagree with your ideas is not doing you any favours.
Your agent should show you all sales comparable in the area and not just is for sale. If you’re feeling rushed or you’re feeling like you’re being sales pitched, that’s a good sign you should walk away. A good agent will always be on your team.
Knows Your Selling or Buying Motivation
Are you selling to buy something larger for your growing family, are you buying to acquire an investment property, are you in the downsizing phase of your life? Your real estate agent should be very interested in your motivations for this large financial decision you’re making.
A good agent will learn your needs and adapt to them. They will listen more than they speak and they will ask the right questions to get to know the special circumstances that surround your motivations to buy or sell.
Happy To Share Referrals
When looking for a real estate agent, we always want the “best”, and one of the most effective ways to understand an agents history is to speak with their past clients. A real estate agent that puts their clients’ needs first will have no trouble sharing references with you as they’ll know their clients have good things to say.
If you truly want to know what you’re getting into, ask your potential real estate agent for their most recent clients as references. If they’re willing to share this with you, you’re most likely in the presence of an honest, experienced real estate agent.
Did you like our What Makes a Good Real Estate Agent article? Check out our other resources here.
If you are seeking advice on buying a home in Ottawa, or have more questions for us on what makes a good real estate agent, we are happy to provide you with helpful guidance and support. Email us at info@buyandsellottawa.ca or call us at 613-590-3036.