Is Your Realtor Good at Communication?

Communication. The #1 complaint clients make about their realtor is, “He/she got my listing and I never heard from him/her again”. Don’t let it happen to you! Here are four important keys to finding a realtor who is a good communicator.

TIMELINESS

You are tech savvy, with a smart phone and other electronic communications devices that allow you to check, receive, and respond to communications instantly. You expect the same from your realtor. How quickly does he or she reply to your initial phone call or email?

If they are not available to return your call immediately, did they let you know on the voicemail when they would be available to return your call? If they are unable to get back to you in a reasonable amount of time, it’s a definite red flag.

GOOD COMMUNICATION STARTS WITH ACTIVE LISTENING

Above all else, you want to be heard. Buying or selling a home is stressful. A good realtor can go a long way toward relieving that stress if they listen actively. First, does the realtor ask you open ended questions, questions that require more than a simple “yes” or “no” answer?

When you meet with your realtor in person, do they look you in the eye? Do they take notes and ask questions—not just about your needs but about your concerns as well? Does the realtor clarify information by saying something like: “so if I’m understanding you correctly, three full baths is an absolute must-have?”

PARTNERING WITH YOU

Does your realtor keep his or her cool when you talk about difficult situations? Are they adaptable to you? If you have already researched the market and know exactly what your buying price should be, are they open and grateful for your input? Is he or she open to your suggestions? Are prepared with current market information to share so that you can see for yourself what’s going on with home prices in the area? This puts you in more of a partnership with them.

You want to keep good communication with your real estate professional – so that you are able to get in touch with them when you need to. Look for one who, early on in your working relationship, let’s you know when and how you can best reach them with questions and concerns.

SOCIAL MEDIA?

Can you easily find them on the internet or social media? This helps you visualize what it will be like to work with them.

So to recap, make sure your realtor is timely, listens actively and is wants your input. When you do that, chances are really good that you’ll experience excellent communication as you work together to find your home.

Want more tips on buying a home? Check out more posts for buyers and sellers