Sound Off: What should clients look for in an agent?

A:

There are many qualities that come to mind when applying their importance to the profession of real estate.

There are three qualities we feel are paramount: The first is respect and integrity. Without respect and integrity you have nothing.

Your most important responsibility is a fiduciary responsibility to your client. We often are dealing with a client’s entire life savings. For this reason alone, it is mandatory to be putting your client’s interest first.

Also important is the ability to negotiate skillfully. Without this, real estate will be very challenging. It is very important to have the ability and knowledge of procuring the best advantage for your client.

Lastly, the ability to problemsolve is mandatory. Being able to help your client solve any issues that may arise in the sale or purchase of a property, offers your client a peace of mind, knowing that you are able to think creatively, which can ensure a smooth and drama free transaction.

All of these combined make a perfect recipe for a great agent. Anthony Kwiecien, Compass, 4153774366, anthony.kwiecien@compass.com; Hilary Jordan, Compass, 4088918800, hilary.jordan@compass.com.

A:

There are the standards: Know the inventory, have a solid advertising and custom marketing plan and great negotiation skills. Extensive experience in the business, having a massive personal network of colleagues to promote listings and maintaining high ethics and integrity are all important. Clients often share private information so being very discreet and confidential are absolutely imperative.

A willingness to go above and beyond, exploring uncommon options for clients, being resourceful and inventive to come up with solutions are necessary qualities. This profession is definitely not an 8to5 job. It takes stamina and high energy to deal with issues and concerns to obtain the desired results.

Taking a “rapid response” approach by replying promptly to clients’ needs and wants is imperative. The client should to be wellinformed as knowledge is power.

Ultimately, my goal is to be the kind of Realtor that my clients want to keep as a friend and confidante long after the transaction is completed. Jill Gumina, Compass, 4152651717, jkgumina@gmail.com.

A:

One of the most important qualities to look for in a real estate agent is integrity. Many other great characteristics come with integrity; communication, transparency, persistence, and ultimately a strong work ethic. And, let’s face it, work ethic is the biggest factor separating the good agents from the great agents.

In today’s world, a real estate agent equipped with technology in their business practice can offer modern solutions to an otherwise archaic industry. Working with an agent who has a technological mindset will save you time, alleviate headaches, and ultimately provide more desperatelyneeded clarity into the entire sales process.

Lastly, an agent who has an underlying passion for what they do, a deep community connection leading to offmarket sales, and an indepth understanding of construction can serve to be priceless.

It may be difficult to initially find that dream agent who has these qualities, but when you do it will be worth the energy you spent to find them. C.J. Nakagawa, Golden Gate Sotheby’s International Realty, 4154072151, sf2marin@gmail.com.