What makes a real estate agent great?

I wanted to share this with you and get your thoughts as well. I have been asked to define what is a good real estate agent or REALTOR®. In my opinion, a great agent must serve their clients by putting the client's best interest first and foremost before their own. A good REALTOR® will abide by higher standards and conform to the REALTOR® Code of Ethics; must be knowledgeable, truthful, honest and posses integrity. Offer solutions and options for the clients that will help them with their situation, explain each step in the Leasing, buying, selling or investing process, such as contracts, time lines, loan process, title, appraisal, inspections, home warranty in a manner that is easy to understand and be available to answer any and all of their questions and concerns and be able to return their calls in a timely manner. The REALTOR® should understand completely the needs and ability to make a purchase or the reasons for the sale, which enables the REALTOR® to make the right recommendations and course of action. It is very important to listen and to understand those needs and circumstances that are present and influencing their decision of buying or selling and be a great communicator; knowing that, you are then able to offer the best solution for their situation.

As REALTORS® our services should not end at the closing table; we must keep in touch and serve our clients with things like filling their homestead tax exemption and making sure that they are doing well after the sale. Let them know about things they might need such as grocery stores, shopping malls, area recreational spots, things to do and see in town, this is another good way to ask for referrals and keep your name in their minds.

By maintain a relationship with the clients that go beyond the closing; a REALTOR® shows that they care for their client's and not only just to sell them something to earn a commission. Furthermore, building a lifelong relationship of trust, integrity and service is the key to staying in business. Provide solutions and choices for the clients by educating them and allowing them to make the best informed decision for themselves and their circumstances. A great agent will never spend his efforts just trying to make a sale; they would be concentrating on giving competent and professional service, therefore helping fulfill the client's needs and achieving the client's goals.