There is more to being successful in the real estate industry than listings and sales. Above all it is about people, perseverance and professionalism. The right agent can make a difference, whether you are selling or purchasing a property. This blog identifies the qualities and skills that a great local real estate agent must have and their implications in your property journey.
What Does a Real Estate Agent Do?
The work of a real estate agent does not just involve house showings. They do the work of mediating between buyers and sellers, assisting clients in purchasing, selling or renting residential and commercial property. They are responsible on a daily basis for:
- Advertising listings and managing open houses.
- Meeting clients and keeping them informed.
- Market analysis and price analysis of properties.
- Writing contracts and guaranteeing legality.
- Closing deals and negotiating.
- Posting about local schools, neighborhoods and resources.
Simply put, an astute agent takes care of the finer details, allowing clients to see the big picture of locating their dream house or sealing the right deal.
Essential Qualities and Skills of a Great Real Estate Agent
Some local real estate agent skills are non-negotiable “must-haves.” These qualities will go a long way in selling or buying property. When considering dealing with a local real estate agent, look for the following:
1. Strong Communication Skills
Real estate is a human centered occupation. Great agents understand how to communicate effectively with people, whether through phone calls, text messages or emails.
They are keen listeners who can translate complex language into simple terms, reading nonverbal cues to gain a deeper understanding of their client’s requirements. Effective communication instills trust and makes all of the proceedings in the process clean and clear.
2. Local Market Knowledge
An agent well versed in local knowledge can be a game changer. They are familiar with property values in the neighborhood, school districts and other amenities available in the area, as well as future development plans.
This knowledge will assist the client to make fully informed choices, and the agent will have an upper hand in the negotiation and marketing processes.
3. Negotiation Expertise
One of the most useful real estate skills is negotiation. A great agent knows the buyer and the seller: how to negotiate the best price with the seller or how to negotiate a fair deal with the buyer.
Strong agents are both empathetic and assertive. Their results will be pertinent to the interests of their client, while remaining simultaneously professional and just.
4. Relationship Building
Relationships are key to a successful real estate transaction. Successful agents are people oriented, not property oriented. They maintain contact with clients, other agents, lenders and inspectors, fostering trust, empathy and lasting relationships.
Agents who place an emphasis on relationships tend to garner a higher number of referrals and repeat customers.
5. Technical and Digital Proficiency
In this age many operational workflows are digital. A modern day agent should know how to use technology very well—leveraging tech in creating 3D virtual tours, maintaining accurate online listings or operating client communication equipment.
Furthermore, contemporary real estate agents should be able to use software, social media and real estate apps. Proficiency in these will ensure that they are able to effectively target and reach a larger number of people.
6. Integrity and Professional Ethics
The importance of honesty and integrity in a real estate agent cannot be overstated. Clients rely on their agents to give them correct information and act in their best interest.
Ethical agents adhere to the legal requirements of the real estate industry and the Code of Ethics of the National Association of REALTORS®, including client confidentiality, transparency and professionalism.
7. Marketing and Promotional Skills
Yard signs are only the tip of the iceberg, when it comes to real estate marketing. Effective agents understand how to develop online campaigns, social media and websites, and how to write unique property descriptions.
They combine innovation and analytics, in order to appeal to the appropriate buyers and to the competitive positioning of other properties in the market.
8. Understanding Real Estate Laws and Regulations
Buying and selling of real estate entails contracts, disclosures and legal papers. Informed agents are also familiar with local and state legislations, to ensure that all transactions are conducted within the law.
This protects clients against legal expenses and helps ensure a smooth closing.
9. Problem Solving Ability
There are always challenges: a low rating, a difficult client or an overdue closing. Experienced agents tackle these problems with a cool head, deliberate on potential solutions, and respond creatively and confidently.
The ability to solve problems creates a trusting relationship with the client and proves professionalism under pressure.
10. Positive Attitude and Resilience
The real estate market is unpredictable, as things change quickly. To counteract this, keep a positive perspective. Sometimes individuals who are not well informed may struggle with this; however, real estate agents with positivity can instill positivity in their clients. They can also see opportunities in a slow market, which can be an advantage to clients.
Conclusion
When it comes to finding a local real estate agent, credentials are important; but even more so is the ability to find an agent who can communicate effectively, understand the community, and work with professionalism and honesty. Whether you are just beginning your adventure in the world of real estate or need an agent to represent you, these are the qualities that you must find, in order to gain trust, success and positive outcomes.
Are you looking for a local real estate agent in Ohio whom you can trust? Contact Jill Team for your real estate needs today!