How Not to Pick a Realtor®

Recently I lost a listing because the seller decided to throw a bag of chips into the air and make her decision.  If it landed face up, I had the listing; face down, well, you get the picture.  I think this was a stress reaction because she said she simply could not make up her mind between the two listing agents she was considering.  She said we were in “a dead heat.”

I met a man the other day who told me that his wife picked their Realtor® based on age.  She wanted someone young that she could relate to.  She would not consider anyone even five years older than she was.  While this made more sense than flipping a bag of chips, it seems to me that there may be more to it than this.

How about picking someone based on their market knowledge and experience?  Perhaps even on how well they prepare for your listing presentation?  Are they professional?  On-time?  Friendly and enthusiastic?  Do they think well on their feet?  Do they seem to have your best interests at heart?  Are they willing to spend some time with you to determine your needs and wants?  Are they asking about how often you would like updates, and in what format?

And bottom line:  Do you feel comfortable with this person?  Buying or selling a home is often a very personal and stressful journey.  You need to be able to confide in this person and know they will treat your information and you with respect.  Trust your gut here; this is important.  It’s ok if you got a referral from a friend to try their brother-in-law’s second cousin once-removed, but do be sure they meet the criteria to get the job done well.

Would love to hear your thoughts, if you'd like to comment!

Marianne Smith
Realtor®
(cell) 615-517-6560
J.R. Hobbs & Sons Real Estate

Since 1909

229 W. Main Street, Lebanon, TN
(office) 615-444-1663
www.jrhobbsrealty.com
marianneattheranch@gmail.com