Let's face it -- in today's challenging economy, every penny you can save matters. That's why some homeowners go it alone when it comes time to sell their home. However, according to a recent survey conducted by the Multiple Listing Service MLS, the vast majority of consumers say working with a real estate professional is the only way to go ... especially in today's market.
In this landmark study examining the home-buying and -selling preferences of consumers in the Mid-Atlantic region, 95% reported that working with a real estate professional is just as important, if not more important, than it was just a few years ago. As a Member of the Top 5 in Real Estate Network®, I know for a fact that this rings true for all areas across the country.
As the MLS survey reveals, today's consumers recognize this is not the time to complete a real estate transaction on their own, and are placing a stronger emphasis on an agent's professional skills. As such, the following criteria were ranked as the most critical factors in choosing a real estate agent (in order of importance):
- Trustworthiness
- Experience
- Willingness to look out for a client's interest
- Expertise in negotiating contracts
- Responsiveness
- Familiarity with contracts
- Knowledge of the local community
The above requirements are evidence that consumers are seeking more than simple guidance ... they are looking for an expert they can trust to execute a step-by-step process throughout the entire transaction. While most consumers rely on the Internet as the first step in the home-buying and -selling process, a professional, experienced real estate agent -- such as a member of the Top 5 Network -- is critical in helping consumers filter through the copious amounts of information available online in order to make the optimal real estate decision for their specific situation and location.
If you would like more information regarding what to look for in a real estate agent, and specific questions you should ask an agent during an interview, please e-mail me. I encourage you to also forward this blog article to anyone in your social network who may be considering a real estate transaction.
Sincerely,
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