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For most people, the real estate transactions they do will be the biggest dollar, highest stakes deals of their lives. Expensive, highly emotional, deeply important (aaand not to mention, legally binding) decisions are made around the buying and selling of property, so as you begin the process, take real care in who you partner with to make it happen. As you get started, there are some major buckets of questions to ask yourself, and I’ve compiled them below.
In no particular order, here’s the advice I’d give my best girlfriend, my mom, or your grandmother –
- Connection: Feeling the right connection with your agent matters (and it’s going to feel different for everyone). Interview more than one agent and pay attention to how you feel when you wrap up the meeting. Did they take time to explain their process in a way that made sense to you? Did you feel like your goals and priorities were heard? Logistically, does the partnership make sense? Similar working availability, preferred modes of communication, and a clearly outlined process are all green flags to look for.
- Honesty and Integrity: This is a must for each home sale or purchase, or you may find yourself caught up in litigation. Choose your agent carefully to make sure it’s someone you can trust with such a big financial decision. The agent you want to partner with is focused on getting you into the right home, and won’t rush you into a transaction that doesn’t serve you. Your agent should be honest and objectively provide you with as much information as possible so you can make informed decisions.
- Deep Understanding of the Market: Find an agent that is local — Local agents have more details on hard statistics such as inventory levels, local housing and zoning developments, and can provide tighter price per square foot estimates. They also know anecdotal information, such as the neighborhood’s culture, vibe, and specific activity hubs in the area.
- Communication and Negotiation Skills: As a home buyer or seller, you should never be asking, what’s next? Your agent should keep you informed every step of the way, to avoid hiccups. Find an agent that has robust listening skills, uses your preferred mode of communication, and aligns with your working style. Ask yourself, do I want to work with this person? Once you vet them, have them walk through their craft of negotiation with you. Your broker should excel at strategically advocating on your behalf and crafting offers that stand out in this competitive Seattle market. Their negotiation skills are what get you the best possible deal while protecting your needs and interests.
- Resourcefulness and Attention to Detail: Creativity and an impeccable eye go a long way. Your agent should have a playbook for everything. A list of vetted contractors? Yes! A handle on the lending process? Yes! But they also need to be resourceful and detail oriented. Your agent should be able to catch every nuance and potential issue, ensuring nothing is overlooked in your contracts. Make sure they can mitigate challenges and risks calmly, while still being an opportunistic and trusted advisor.
- Designated Broker Support: We know a team approach is a better approach. Research shows that collaborative problem-solving leads to better outcomes. So find an agent that is backed by a trusted firm that has a knowledgeable and hands-on Designated Broker. Their support network will help them creatively solve complicated and stressful transactions – leaving you with a confident, competent, and calm brokerage team.
Questions? Shoot me a phone at Hannah.Roberts@winderemere.com, or give me a call at 1 (509) 679-8948.
