When it comes to one of the largest transactions a person can make in their lifetime, homebuyers can be picky when it comes to hiring the right real estate agent, and rightfully so. To achieve their real estate goals, it’s imperative that your clients choose the right buyer representation, and select an agent who can make the home buying experience as smooth and seamless as possible. This is why, as a real estate agent, exuding authority and professionalism is a must.
Red Flags Homebuyers Look for When Hiring a Real Estate Agent
Unfamiliarity with the Local Neighborhood
Real estate is known to be a very localized business. Homebuyers are seeking real estate agents who know the neighborhood landscape of the areas they’re interested in like the back of their hand. If you appear unfamiliar with their target location, the odds are they won’t trust you with their transaction. So, be sure to cover your bases by effectively highlighting your expertise and having as many resources available to your clients as possible, including market updates, community pages, or relevant articles to demonstrate how in-the-know you are about the locale.
Poor Communication Skills
A real estate agent who communicates poorly will inevitably produce disgruntled and unsatisfied clients. Homebuyers are not interested in agents who are unreachable or fail to inform them on the status of their transaction. And since clients are always online or on-the-go, it’s key to answer phone calls and follow up in a timely fashion, even if it’s just a quick check-in via text message. It’s better to over-communicate than to under-communicate. An easy way to make sure your clients can reach you is by displaying your contact information prominently on your website and social media channels.
Lack of Testimonials or Reviews
Having little to no feedback from real estate agents can make homebuyers think you are hiding something. To potential clients, an agent without references may as well be an agent whose website is littered with negative reviews. Going the extra mile and gathering feedback reassures them that you’re proactive in perfecting the art of your craft. Once you’ve compiled enough success stories, ensure your reviews can be easily spotted on your website.