What makes a good real estate agent? And how do you know if “you” are one?

This isn’t scientific by any means. But let’s think about those questions…

…here are my thoughts.

To be a good agent you need to be able to market a home to be most appealing to the most people no matter what the house. I know that’s a pretty general statement, but I believe the truth is there. Just about every house you list will be similar to another house. But a good agent is going to have the owners clean it up, pack it up and stage it to look move-in ready. Then when it’s looking tip top, they are going to have an “accurate & complete” set of photos taken that show the home in its entirety. The agent will use these photos along with a well written description in there listing(s). These listings are going to give potential buyers a tour of the home while allowing them to “study” the home. Why is the word “study” important? Because during the “studying” the potential buyer is determining how they will live in the home, and in turn be imagining themselves in the home. Videos are nice for a tour, but photos allow more time for pondering. (This is why not just any photos will do.) The home preparation and the listing are what will get buyers to the home.

Another factor that I believe contributes to being a good agent is when an agent, first and foremost, puts the seller’s needs ahead of their own. Whether it’s the seller’s goal to sell quickly or for the most money, this concept does a few things. The seller won’t need to question whether you are convincing them to take the deal because it’s in your or their best interest. Seller’s need to feel they can trust their agent. Selling and buying a home can be a scary deal for some. When a seller feels they can trust you, they are more likely to talk good things about you and send referrals your way. Your reputation is based on how you do business, and a good portion of your business runs on referrals. Putting your seller’s needs and wants first is a good move for your long career as a real estate agent. Don’t underestimate the power of sincere kindness.

So the bigger question, how do you know if “you” are a good agent? At first, I thought, “I don’t know.” But truthfully, I think you just need to ask yourself if you are doing everything I've mentioned, or at least striving to do these things, and if you are, then I think you are on the right track. If you think you are and still have doubts, call me. We can talk about what you’re doing, and figure out if you can do it different or better.

602-809-7710, Michelle.

What do your listing photos say about your level of professionalism as a real estate agent?