Skills Required from Those you Hired

If you ever read statistics on how people choose the Realtor and broker organization it would simply amaze you. Typically a person selects the first Realtor they speak to and rarely do a formal search for qualifications and compatibility. Below is an interesting article outlining this strange trend (63% choose the first agent they speak with!): (http://www.homegain.com/press_center/press_releases/show_release?pr_year=1999&pr=1999_08_31)

One of the main reasons people have for not properly qualifying an agent or broker is TIME - or more accurately the lack of time available for the process. This post is intended to give you a VERY basic overview or checklist to follow. It is not intended for someone who wants to invest the required time into this process - it is for someone who would otherwise skip the step entirely.

Qualities to Look for in an Agent

1) Competence - Ask them for a brief "resume" of their experience both in the real estate industry and elsewhere. If they have held prominent roles in other industries, this should be given due credit. Let's face it, some people are hard workers, others are not. A history of job performance can give you a long term picture at personality traits. Would you hire them if you were a business owner?

2) Personality - Do you like them? Well common sense tells you that if you like them than others may as well. Just be sure that they do have a certain degree of "backbone", because in the end you need someone who can put a deal together properly. A totally driven personality may be overkill - look for a nice blend of people skills and determination.

3) Investment - A professional invests in the tools of the trade. Has the candidate given you impressive materials or something that looks like it has been run through the photocopier 1000 times? Are you able to easily contact them through a direct cell phone number? What about a laptop? While the job can be done effectively without some tools, judging based on this criteria can weed out part timers. Remember, this is a knee-jerk decision guide, not a scientific study.

Qualities to Look for in a Broker

1) Presence - Is the brand name recognizable? I would not be worried about an independent brand if the market presence is strong. A familiar name is important. Brand names move products for a reason - trust. The same hold true with the "brand" of real estate firm you have represent your interests.

2) History - Think strongly about using a company that has been in the market for a number of years. Anything over 10 years should be fine, but preferably 15 or more under the guidance of the same broker.

3) Colours - I'm sorry, this is the graphic artist in me! I couldn't possibly hang a sign with putrid colours on my lawn. In reality, I don't think this is a legitimate point, I was just striving to have 3 points in this section as well;)

There you go, a simple three step decision guide, use it wisely!