Choosing the right realtor can make all the difference when buying or selling a home. A great realtor will not only help you navigate the complexities of the real estate market but will also ensure you get the best deal possible. However, with so many agents to choose from, how do you know which one is the right fit for you?

In this blog, we’ll discuss the essential qualities to look for in a realtor to help you make a confident choice. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or an experienced seller, these tips will guide you in spotting a top-notch realtor who can help you achieve your real estate goals.

1. Experience and Market Knowledge

One of the first things to look for in a realtor is their level of experience and knowledge of the local real estate market. A seasoned agent will have a deep understanding of the neighborhoods, current market trends, pricing strategies, and the buying/selling process.

How to Spot an Experienced Realtor:

  • Track record of successful transactions: Ask the realtor how many homes they’ve sold or helped buy in your area recently.

  • Familiarity with your market: They should know the average home prices, how long properties stay on the market, and local amenities or developments that could impact your transaction.

  • Years in the industry: While a newer realtor might still be skilled, experience often leads to better problem-solving and negotiation skills.

2. Strong Communication Skills

Real estate transactions can move quickly, and having a realtor who communicates effectively is crucial. Whether it’s returning calls or keeping you informed of the latest developments, a great realtor will be responsive and keep you in the loop at every stage of the process.

How to Spot Good Communication:

  • Timely responses: A good realtor returns phone calls, emails, and texts promptly, ensuring you never feel left in the dark.

  • Clarity: They should be able to explain complex real estate terms or situations in a way that is easy to understand.

  • Active listener: A top realtor listens carefully to your needs and preferences, tailoring their approach to your specific goals rather than using a one-size-fits-all method.

3. Strong Negotiation Skills

Negotiation is a key part of buying or selling a home, and a great realtor will have the expertise to get you the best possible deal. Whether it's negotiating a higher price for your sale or securing a better deal as a buyer, you need an agent who knows how to advocate for you.

Signs of a Skilled Negotiator:

  • Confident yet flexible: They can firmly represent your interests while being flexible enough to close the deal.

  • Attention to detail: A great realtor pays attention to the finer points of a contract, helping you avoid pitfalls and ensuring that you get favorable terms.

  • Proven success: Ask for examples of how they’ve successfully negotiated deals for their clients in the past.

4. Professional Reputation and Reviews

In the digital age, it’s easier than ever to find reviews and testimonials from past clients. A realtor with a strong professional reputation is likely to be trustworthy and reliable, giving you peace of mind as you embark on your real estate journey.

How to Check a Realtor’s Reputation:

  • Online reviews: Look at platforms like Zillow, Realtor.com, Google Reviews, or even social media to see what previous clients are saying.

  • Ask for references: A great realtor should be more than willing to provide references from satisfied clients.

  • Professional affiliations: Realtors who are members of the National Association of Realtors (NAR) or other professional organizations often adhere to higher ethical standards.

5. Local Network and Connections

A well-connected realtor can make your buying or selling process smoother and more efficient. They should have a network of other professionals such as home inspectors, mortgage brokers, contractors, and attorneys to recommend, helping you throughout the transaction.

What to Look for in Networking:

  • Access to resources: Great realtors can recommend trusted professionals for inspections, legal help, repairs, and more.

  • Local market connections: They may have insights into upcoming listings or know about properties before they hit the market.

  • Community involvement: A realtor who is actively involved in the community may have stronger ties to the local market, giving them a competitive edge.

6. Honesty and Transparency

A great realtor will always be upfront with you about what to expect, even if the news isn't what you hoped for. Whether it's setting realistic expectations for your home sale or providing a candid assessment of a property, transparency builds trust and leads to a smoother process.

How to Identify Honest Realtors:

  • Realistic pricing strategies: They should give you an honest evaluation of your property’s value, even if it’s lower than you anticipated.

  • Clear communication of fees: Make sure they are transparent about their commission and any other fees involved in the process.

  • References and credentials: They should be willing to share their licensing information and any relevant credentials without hesitation.

7. Tech-Savvy and Marketing Skills

In today’s real estate market, technology plays a huge role in getting homes sold quickly and efficiently. A great realtor will be tech-savvy and have strong marketing skills to ensure your property gets maximum exposure.

How to Spot a Tech-Savvy Realtor:

  • Use of online platforms: They should know how to leverage listing platforms, social media, and other digital tools to market your home or find properties.

  • Virtual tours and 3D walkthroughs: Especially in a competitive market, being able to showcase homes virtually can make all the difference.

  • Effective online presence: Look for agents who have a strong online presence, including a professional website and active social media accounts.

Finding a great realtor is about more than just choosing someone who is licensed or has a lot of listings. By focusing on qualities like experience, communication skills, honesty, and market knowledge, you can find a realtor who will advocate for your best interests and help you successfully navigate the complexities of buying or selling a home.

Matt Witte strives to be the best realtor in Andover MA.

Any questions about real estate, reach out to Matt Witte Andover Realtor MA