3 Critical Skills that your Buyer Agent should have
You’re ready to buy a house and you need to find a Realtor to work with. In order to make sure that your best interests are being looked after, make sure that the person you choose has these three critical skills:
1) Data Research & Analytical Skills
Solid research and analytical skills come into play when determining the fair value range of a home. It’s not as simple as adding/subtracting 5% from the asking price. Your Realtor should be able to prepare data ratios to evaluate homes by tax payments, square footage, past sale prices, recent market appreciation/depreciation, as well as current market factors.
2) EXPERT Local Knowledge
Does your Realtor live or regularly work in the area where you’re buying and how long have they done so? Although neighbourhoods may look the same, they are not at all the same in terms of lifestyle or demographics, and prices are not comparable. How familiar are they with rural properties and local bylaws? Can they answer your questions about wells and septic tanks, Internet service, closest schools and hospitals, and what is required if you’re planning to build a new home. If you don’t know the area like the back of your hand, make sure your buyer agent can prove they do.
3) Communication & Rapport
Does your Realtor take time to get to know you, to ask questions, to listen, and to learn exactly what you want and need? You need to feel comfortable sharing your goals, fears, worries, and when you think you are changing your mind or your goals. This happens all the time and it’s important to stay on the same page. You truly need to trust your buyer agent and let them get to know you in order for them to do the best job.