I would like to use this blog post to educate my readers on trends that I am seeing in the real estate market, and report on observations I make throughout real estate transactions where it seems apparent there is a general misconception. This month, I am going to educate you on the value of an experienced, skilled real estate professional.
I believe that most of the general public thinks that as long as an agent has a license, they all have the same skills and qualifications. This could not be farther from the truth. In fact, just as every contractor, lawyer, doctor, and teacher have to pass licensing tests, their skill set that they offer you will vary greatly.
I have found myself working with seasoned and newly licensed agents representing the opposing side, and have been repeatedly disappointed for the level of service, skill, and diligence in representing their client. This just goes to show you that the quality of service you receive as a client cannot be qualified based on the number of years an agent has been licensed.
I could go on and on about the things I’ve seen, but my goal is to educate you, the consumer, so I will instead list a few things that I would suggest you look for in a real estate professional:
1. Experience – As we’ve established above, this may not be in number of years, although a new agent who’s only been licensed for a couple years is likely to lack a few skills a more seasoned agent will have hopefully acquired. More importantly, ask the agent how many properties they sell in any given year and where. An agent selling a handful of houses a year will not be exposed as often to the myriad issues that arise throughout any sale, and therefore will not have gained the skill, which can only come with practice, to problem solve with their clients day in and day out. Also, if an agent sells primarily in more recently built communities, they may be less equipped to navigate through the nuances of what to expect when purchasing or selling an older home. For example, on older homes, it is not uncommon to have some cracks in a foundation, or some posts and piers that need to be replaced. Nor is it uncommon to find that the chimney is not lined and is not considered safe for use, or that the cast iron sewer line may be cracked due to its age. Agents selling more recent construction rarely have to deal with any of this and may not know how to guide you as a buyer or seller through that process of what to expect. Make sure the agent you hire is knowledgeable about the type of home you want to buy or sell, and that they have sold enough to give you confidence in their abilities to help you resolve any issues that may arise during the sale.
2. Is it a numbers game? In this fast paced market, I see so many agents “catching the fish” and throwing it in the bucket to be processed by someone else. This often results in them “passing the buck” when it comes to negotiating, attention to detail, and advocating for their client, or sometimes essentially leaving their client fend for themselves with little guidance from the agent. Once their clients are under contract they move on to the next while the client is pushed through a series of individuals (assistants, partner agents, etc.). If you are comfortable with this work style great, but ask the agent how the interaction works and if they will be personally following the sale from beginning to end, or if you will be needing to work with others once an offer is accepted. If your agent is not involved and knowledgeable about the inspections completed, how can they effectively advocate for you and suggest negotiating strategy?
3. Professionalism counts! Of course here in San Diego, our attire can be rather relaxed, but does your agent communicate in a professional manner? This will affect not only your interactions with each other, but also the results of their interactions on your behalf with the other agent. It is our jobs, as real estate agents, to paint a picture of who you are to the buyer or seller and essentially sell YOU to the other party. Its not just your offer or your property that you are selling, but who we are going to be working with for 1-2 months. The people you work with and the sentiment toward them (ultimately created with the way you are presented by your agent) will weigh heavily on whether your purchase or sale is successful. Make sure you are working with an agent who can communicate professionally, eloquently and with precision.
4. Cooperation is KEY! I have been working in this industry since 1990 and have seen so many work styles among agents. I believe the general train of thought many years ago was that an agent should be “bullish”, gruff, and rigid to get the best deal for their clients. I suggest, rather, looking for an agent who has good working relationships with many other agents. Our jobs are to help a buyer and a seller come to a meeting of the minds. We accomplish that by helping our clients sort through their “must haves” and what they are willing to let go. By communicating with the agent on the other side to help each other understand the sticking points, we are able to assist our clients more effectively reach an agreement that feels like a “win-win.” Besides, that relationship your agent may have with the other agent may make the difference between your offer getting accepted or not!
I hope this gives you some talking points when looking for an agent to help you with your real estate needs. I would be thrilled with the opportunity to meet with you personally to discuss whether we may work together. Just give me a call at 619-944-2798 so we can set up an appointment.