Feeling like watching or listening instead? Click play on the video below.
Why did the home buyer cross the road? To avoid working with a questionable real estate agent! But seriously, having a top San Francisco area agent in your corner is crucial for a successful transaction. With over a million active agents in the country, it can be tough to find a good one. That’s why I have compiled this list of 6 signs to help you spot a top-notch agent.
1. Plenty of Experience
Buying or selling a home is a significant financial decision that requires the expertise of a knowledgeable and experienced real estate agent. In fact, according to a report from the National Association of Realtors, 86% of buyers and sellers surveyed indicated that experience is an important factor when selecting an agent. This statistic highlights the critical role that experience plays in the success of a real estate transaction.
When choosing an agent, it’s essential to consider their level of experience and track record of success. An experienced agent can offer valuable insights into the market and help navigate the complexities of the buying or selling process. They can also provide guidance on pricing, negotiation, and marketing strategies that can lead to a successful transaction.
2. Responsiveness
When it comes to selecting a real estate agent, responsiveness is a crucial factor to consider. According to a 2020 survey by the National Association of Realtors, 80% of buyers and sellers rated responsiveness as a very important quality in their agent. This statistic emphasizes the importance of timely communication and updates throughout the buying or selling process.
An experienced agent understands that selling or buying a home can be a stressful experience and is committed to being a responsive and reliable partner. They prioritize timely responses to calls, texts, and emails, ensuring that clients feel heard and supported throughout the process. A top agent will go above and beyond to provide clear and concise communication that helps clients understand the complex transaction process.
3. Listings with Great Copy and Photos
According to a study by Homelight, a real estate referral company, homes with professional photos sell 32% faster than homes without professional photos. This underscores the importance of great photography in real estate listings.
When selecting a real estate agent, it’s important to review their online listings to see if they have compelling copy and high-quality photos. A top agent will know how to create listing copy that is eye-catching and persuasive, and they will work with professional photographers to capture images that showcase the property’s best features.
In addition to great copy and photos, it’s also important to consider an agent’s marketing strategy. A top agent will have a solid plan for marketing your property to potential buyers, including online advertising, social media campaigns, and open houses.
4. Honesty
When looking for a real estate agent in San Francisco, honesty should be a top priority. In a highly competitive market like San Francisco, where homes sell for an average of 11% above their asking price, it’s crucial to work with a trustworthy and ethical agent. According to Realtor.com, San Francisco has one of the most competitive housing markets in the country, making it essential to work with an agent who has your best interests in mind.
A top San Francisco real estate agent will prioritize honesty, providing you with transparent advice about the pros and cons of different properties. This includes being honest about what you can afford and how to price your property competitively. Unlike less ethical agents who might make gleeful promises and endless affirmations, a good agent will not always tell you what you want to hear, but instead provide you with truthful information so you can make informed decisions.
5. Strong Network
Having a strong professional network is an important quality of a good real estate agent. According to data from Realtor.com, a top agent in San Francisco will have access to a broad and diverse network of associated professionals, such as lenders, home inspectors, contractors, and insurance agents. This network can be invaluable in helping you navigate the complexities of buying or selling a home, especially in a competitive market like San Francisco.
Whether you need assistance with financing, insurance, zoning, or other aspects of the real estate transaction, a good agent will be able to provide you with trustworthy recommendations and advice. By leveraging their network, they can help you find the right professionals for your needs and ensure that the entire process goes as smoothly as possible. So when you’re looking for a real estate agent, be sure to ask about their network and the relationships they’ve built over the years in the industry.
6. Local Experience and Expertise
When it comes to the San Francisco housing market, having a top real estate agent with local expertise is crucial. In 2021, the median home price in San Francisco was $1.4 million, according to data from Zillow. This makes it one of the most expensive housing markets in the United States. However, despite the high prices, the San Francisco market is highly competitive, with homes often selling for above their asking price.
In fact, in July 2021, the average home in San Francisco sold for 9% above the asking price, according to Redfin. Working with a top agent who knows the market inside and out can help you navigate this competitive landscape and make informed decisions about buying or selling a home.
Find a Top San Francisco Area Real Estate Agent
These signs of a top agent may seem like a pretty tall order, but there are plenty of them out there. The easiest course is to go directly to a premier agency known for top-notch agents. If you want a top San Francisco area real estate agent, be sure to contact me today at 415-830-1423.
