Before you shop for a home or put your property up for sale, you’ll want to hire a good real estate agent to help you with the process. When interviewing a Chicago realtor to represent you in a home sale or purchase, refer to this checklist as a guide for finding a quality agent who has your best interests at heart.
1. Listens to clients and really pays attention to what is said.
2. Remembers or makes notes of what clients tell them.
3. Communicates effectively, in a way clients find convenient and comfortable.
4. Promptly returns phone calls, emails, texts, etc., ideally within the same day.
5. Is punctual and presents offers/counteroffers in a timely manner.
6. Sets realistic expectations and delivers on their word.
7. Keeps clients informed and in the loop.
8. Clearly explains the real estate process and what steps you need to take to reach your goal.
9. Pays attention to local market data and how it impacts their clients’ buying power or selling position.
10. Has a positive attitude.
11. Is honest, upfront and courteous.
12. Dresses professionally.
13. Has a useful, up-to-date website with helpful resources that are easy to navigate.
14. Has a network of reliable, quality industry experts and tradespeople they can refer clients to.
15. Is respectful of other agents and clients, and their time.
16. Provides advice on how to stage or prepare your home for sale.
17. Gets professional photographs taken of your property and doesn’t just use their smart phone to snap some shots.
18. Takes time to learn about your property and recognizes its selling points.
19. Writes a unique listing description that highlights your home’s most desirable features.
20. Is knowledgeable about financing options.
21. Previews listings before bringing clients to see them.
22. Keeps your personal information and situation private.
23. Effectively utilizes the technology that is available in today’s marketplace.
24. Works well with other agents to move a deal forward.
25. Provides testimonials of satisfied customers upon request.
An agent who fulfills these 25 prerequisites truly cares about their clients and wants their clients to have a positive real estate experience. A Chicago realtor who can say Yes to every one of the above is going to have your back and will work hard to help you achieve a successful Chicago condo purchase or sale.
