Hello!Finding a good realtor is like finding a romantic partner. You get excited whenever they call or text, you tell them about all your wants and needs, you spend hours together going to new places, and sometimes you even plan for a future family with them. Depending on the real estate agent, you can be left heart-broken or madly in love with a new property.
The relationship with your realtor is a balance between qualification and chemistry. But often the two don’t add up. The relator could be perfect on paper, but the chemistry just isn’t’ there. Or vice versa- you could have all the chemistry in the world, but in every other respect they just don’t fit.
When buying or selling luxury Florida beachfront real estate, the realtor game is fierce. It’s like you’re the hottest single person in the club on a Friday night. There are literally hundreds of people trying to get your attention. So, how do you find that genuine connection? How can you tell when you’ve met the one?
HOW TO FIND THE RIGHT REALTOR:
# 1 DON’T JUDGE THEM BY APPEARANCE ALONE:
We’re not talking about physical appearance here- though there are certain people who choose a realtor based solely on their outward appearance, their style, or personal brand. This is an unwise strategy for obvious reasons…
What we are really getting at here is- avoid being dazzled by a realtor based on their listing prices. Find a realtor that specializes in a price range similar to your own.
Also, don’t simply judge a relator based on their online profile. Like on a first date, most realtors put their best foot forward and tend to downplay their flaws. Their online profile is just a window. Before settling down, remember to look around inside. Get to know the real person behind the realtor.
# 2 FIND SOMEONE WITH SIMILAR INTERESTS:
Hopefully you’ve met someone who just gets you. It’s like they can read your mind because they love all the things you love. You can trust them implicitly with anything…
Ideally you want a realtor who understands your real estate goals. They need to know everything about what and where your looking to buy. From the surrounding schools, to the commute, and any other local details, your realtor should be proficient in all the areas you’re interested in.
A great realtor will have you believing they’ve lived in an area their whole life, and even suggest alternatives you yourself may not have considered.
# 3 DO YOUR RESEARCH:
Never go all-in with a realtor without doing a bit of stalking first. Ask for some of their previous listings and contact information so you can get first hand testimonies about the realtor.
Always make sure the agent is licensed by the state. You can check with your state’s regulatory body to gain information about a relator’s licensing, disciplinary past, complaints and how long they’ve been selling real estate.
Also, research their current listings to find out if they have a healthy flow of business. Look for an agent or broker who has consistency been selling in similar price ranges and areas- with not so many listings where you will be drowned out, but enough to suggest they are relevant.
# 4 PLAY THE FIELD:
When you mention you’re looking for a realtor, you are bound to get recommendations from friends and family. Though it’s not wrong to take their suggestions, don’t commit before seeing what else is out there. Remember, you’re worth it!
Sometimes you may even have a close friend who’s a realtor. But, just because they are a good friend doesn’t mean they will be a good realtor match for you.
It’s best to set up interviews, or meet-ups, with three or four agents before finding the realtor that is best for you.
# 5 CHOOSE SOMEONE WHO’S THERE FOR YOU:
Finally, when choosing a realtor, always make sure they have your own interests at heart. You want a realtor who won’t try and upsell you a home for a bigger commission, or bog you down with properties that aren’t a good fit. A truly fantastic realtor knows what you want and puts your needs before their own.
This is your home we are talking about, and possibly one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll ever make. Finding a realtor that understands this isn’t easy, it’s a mixture of experience and personality. So take your time! Fall in love with the right agent and don’t force it.
Navigating the real estate market can be tumultuous. A good real estate agent can help you through the storm to find safe haven in a property you truly adore
