Your Real Estate Journey Begins Here: 7 Key Traits to Look For in a Realtor

Whether you're buying you dream home or prepping to sell, one thing's for sure: you need a trusted Realtor by your side to navigate the twists and turns of the real estate market.

But with so many real estate professionals out there, how do you separate the honest and top-producing agents from the rest?

Let's dive into the 7 key traits you should look for when searching for the perfect Realtor:

1. Trustworthiness

Your Realtor should be someone you can trust implicitly. Look for someone with a track record of honesty, integrity, and transparency in their dealings.

2. A Social Presence

It's 2024! Before you hire an agent, look through their social media and check their online presence. If you search their name in Google (where 97% of homebuyers begin their home search) is there proof that they really do market their listings? That they hired a professional photographer and didn't use photos taken on their iPhone? That they truly do have all 5-star reviews? 

Doing your research in advance can pay dividends in the long run.

3. Negotiation Skills

When it comes to sealing the deal, you want a skilled negotiator in your corner. In real estate it's not about years of experience, it's about properties sold. Look for someone with enough sales experience under their belt, so you can feel confident that they will have the ability to advocate for your interests in order to secure the best possible outcome for you. 

Pro-tip in any interview with a Realtor: Always ask for their list to sale price ratio. If they don't know that number off the top of their head, it may be time to interview a new agent.

4. Communication Skills

Effective communication is the bedrock of any successful partnership. Seek out a Realtor who listens actively, communicates clearly and often, to ensure that you are informed every step of the transaction.

5. Local Market Knowledge

Your Realtor should have a deep understanding of the local market dynamics, trends, and intricacies. They should be familiar with the area and market trends in order to best serve your real estate needs.

6. Client-Centered Approach

Your needs and preferences should always come first. Choose an agent who prioritizes your satisfaction above all else and goes the extra mile to exceed your expectations.

7. Problem-Solving Abilities

In the unpredictable world of real estate, challenges are bound to arise. Your Realtor should be a proactive problem-solver, ready to tackle any obstacle with creativity and resourcefulness.

Finding a Realtor is not just about ticking boxes on a checklist—it's about forging a genuine connection with someone who shares your values, understands your goals, and has the expertise to make your real estate goals a reality.