Choosing the right real estate agent is crucial when buying or selling a property. Clients will ask if we believe they picked a good or bad real estate agent. Here are signs that you may have picked a less-than-ideal agent:
Lack of Communication:
Your agent is unresponsive, fails to return calls or emails promptly, or doesn't keep you updated on the progress of your transaction.
Limited Local Knowledge:
A good agent should have a solid understanding of the local real estate market, including neighborhood trends, pricing, and amenities. If your agent seems unfamiliar with these aspects, it could be a red flag.
Poor Marketing Skills:
Effective marketing is essential in real estate. If your agent struggles to present your property well online, through quality photographs, staging, and compelling descriptions, it may impact your ability to attract potential buyers. There is no debate that your home will be viewed mostly online and quality photography will make a difference. Pictures taken with a phone are unacceptable.
Lack of Negotiation Skills:
Your agent should be a skilled negotiator, advocating for your best interests. If you find that your agent is unable to negotiate effectively on your behalf, it might be a sign that they are not the right fit.
Inflexibility:
An inflexible agent who insists on their approach without considering your preferences or feedback may not be the best choice. A good agent should be adaptable and willing to adjust their strategies based on your needs.
Over-promising and Under-delivering:
If your agent makes promises that seem too good to be true or guarantees outcomes that are unrealistic, it's a warning sign. Realistic expectations are essential in real estate.
Lack of Professionalism:
Professionalism is key in real estate transactions. If your agent exhibits unprofessional behavior, such as being late, not being prepared for meetings, or displaying a lack of courtesy, it may impact the overall experience.
Limited Availability:
If your agent is always unavailable or difficult to reach, it can hinder the progress of your transaction. A dedicated agent should be accessible and willing to address your concerns promptly.
Willing to Take Bad Clients
A good agent knows how to price a home to get it sold or prepare their buyer to win in a competitive offer situation. An agent desperate for business will agree to take an over-priced listing to get their sign in the lawn, knowing your house will never sell. They will work with a buyer that hasn’t been properly preapproved for a mortgage and miss out on a hot property.
Lack of Referrals:
Your agent should be able to provide several referrals for home inspectors, lenders, attorneys, and other services. If you feel pressured to use specific vendors hand picked by your agent, it could be a red flag they are all working together. You want to know your team is working in your best interest and not each others.
If you feel you do not have a good relationship with your real estate agent or may have picked a bad one, we encourage you to have a conversation with your agent first and express your concerns.
If you need to evaluate breaking your listing contract, you can reach Floss Law at 224-326-2903 or email us at realestate@flosslaw.com