The first and foremost thing for Millennials (or anyone looking for a Realtor) is to pick one that you like. As much as they are interviewing you as a client, you are also interviewing them. You have every right (and my permission) to interview as many Realtors as you wish and then pick one that you feel you will enjoy working with and makes you feel comfortable. Beyond that, here is my short list of top 5 things to look for in a realtor.
1) EducationIn North Carolina it only takes a few weekend classes to earn a Real Estate License and 8 hours a year of continuing education to keep it – crazy right?! You want a Realtor that has a passion for learning and takes their continuing education seriously. Ask them how many classes they take and how often and watch them squirm. A Realtor who takes advantage of classes as soon as they become available will be on top of the newest changes and best equipped to streamline your process and serve you efficiently.
2) CompetenceExperience isn’t everything. How many houses did they sell last year? A Realtor content with selling one house a year for 30 years is much less effective than one who has sold 30 in the past year. You want someone who is driven and has a proven track record even if they are relatively new to the market. Your best advocate is a dynamic Realtor with their finger on the pulse of your market. Someone who is paying attention to current trends and can use their connections and networks to get the best deal for you.
3) AttitudeWith the high demand for property in the current market, you can expect to make multiple offers and have your share of disappointments. You don’t need your Realtor to add any additional negativity to your experience. You need a Realtor with a positive, upbeat, glass-half-full kind of personality that will hold your hand and guide you through the ups and downs of the process.
4) PolicyIn the ever changing world of real estate there are advocacy groups constantly monitoring the policies governing the industry to evaluate whether they are helping or hurting the rights of individuals who buy and sell property in this country. You want a Realtor who is engaged in helping to improve the industry overall and not just serve themselves and their own clients. Find someone that doesn’t just see you as a cash cow but is willing to walk you through the offer to purchase… step by step.
5) Communication
In this digital age, many people would rather communicate by text, fax or Facebook Messenger. When your realtor needs to get in touch with you, it’s important. Don’t hide from them or disappear into the Bermuda Triangle by screening calls if you are just not the phone call type. Make sure your realtor knows how you like to communicate and is willing to adapt. Ask them how to best reach them and how long it will take to hear back. Open communication will make the process smoother and make sure you don’t miss out on any opportunities.
Remember – it’s not just the realtor’s job to interview you as the buyer, it’s your job to pick the right realtor because they are not all created equal. There are some wonderful ones out there though and if you are not in my Charlotte market and need somebody let me know. I can connect you with some great people!