Do Realtors have what it takes as far as the necessary tools to be successful in helping Buyers and Sellers?

Today's Realtor's Tools: (Please feel free to ad to the list)

• License: A state issued license is necessary to practice Real Estate in just about every state in USA!
• A Broker: A licensed Realtor (aka, Agent) works either as a Broker with own Brokerage license or works under a Broker's license.
• Vehicle: A good operating vehicle is a MUST for the agent must drive for miles showing homes. Depending on market and clientele that an agent works in may determine what type of vehicle he/she drives.
• Mobile Phone: A cell phone is a MUST in order for other people to reach the Realtor and vice versa.
• Computer:Because the MLS (Multiple Listing Service - internet based) is the heart of real estate, a Realtor has to have access to a computer with internet service. Owning a personal PC with internet at the home (office) is usually the norm.
• MLS Use License:A Realtor must have access to the MLS (Multiple Listing Service) in order to look up properties for clients.
• Lock Box Key:A Realtor must have a device to open up lock boxes at listed homes for sale in order to show the homes for sale to clients/customers. The Realtor may own his/her own device such as an electronic eKey that works off like a Treo Smart Phone (transmits and receives access key codes daily from satellite) or may have a device that looks like a garage door opener that synchs and receives new codes via phone modem.
• Camera:A good digital camera is essential for a Realtor because he/she has to take Good Quality Photographs of the listed homes to input onto the MLS and to make hard copy Flyers.
• Printer:A Realtor should have access to a good printer to print necessary Listing Agreements, Buyers/Tenant Rep. Agreements, Residential/Commercial Contracts, Lease Agreements, MLS property printouts, Flyers, etc.
• Signs:  Realtors' signs that are affixed on a yard/property is essential for showing to potential buyers driving around looking for properties for sale/lease/rent.
• Sledge Hammer/Hammer:  Those signs have to be driven into the ground. So, a good, small sledge hammer (few pounds) is a Bonus to have. Some sign installations are designed for foot application.
• Maps/GPS:A well prepared Realtor must have hard copy maps and/or GPS to navigate to homes for showings. Having a good GPS like from GARMINis a Bonus. However, many times new streets will not come up on the GPS because the information hasn't been inputted into government's mega servers (computers) about the new streets. Some times it may take one year or more for new streets to show up on GPS's. So, having hard copy updated maps is a must.
• Pepper Spray/Other Deterrents: For personal safety, some Realtors may elect to carry pepper sprays, stun guns, etc. Having these devices may be gender sided; therefore, women may carry more of these than men.
• Air Fresheners:  Some times it is necessary for Realtors to have air fresheners like Fabreeze plug in to freshen the home. Some times the home may be vacant and this sevice may/should be provided by the Realtor.
• Portable Vacuum Cleaner:  An outstanding Realtor will have a small hand vaccuum cleaner to pick up little stuff in vacant homes that they have listed!
• Mints:  A conscious Realtor will ensure that they are properly groomed and smell good to. So, breath mints is a plus before meeting clients/customers.
• Hand Sanitizer:  A caring Realtor will ensure that they have and use hand sanitizer before and after meeting customers to protect others from germ transfer while shaking hands.
• Portable Stereo System:  A Good Realtor will have a portable stereo like a Bose System to play music at open houses where it may be vacant.
• Membership to www.ActiveRain.com!
• Other Tools?

Cheers, KIM.

Contact Mr. C. KIM McGuire @ 361.215-8612, a RE/MAX Corpus Christi to Padre Island to Port Aransas Realtor, for Your Home Buying, Selling, or Rent needs

KIM McGuire Sells "Home Sweet Homes!"