Recently
I was in a conversation with a newer agent who made a very interesting comment
to me. I asked this person if they would use themselves to buy or sell a
house (I ask this question to every new agent in the business) knowing their
own experience level which was nonexistent. I was looking for this agent
to express to me a most compelling reason to use their services. This individual said that homes really do
just sell themselves, the market is great and why would someone not use them.
To me this did not answer the question as to why would I use them.
This person basically said that realtors have no value except to push the paperwork through. Just not in those exact words. At first I was a bit shocked from his comment, but then realized that many people think the exact same way. Especially since it is very easy for people to get their real estate license. Take a few courses, prepare for a test, take a test and you can now sell real estate (in a nut shell). Interesting, new agents want to get paid big fees, but most (not all) have no real time experience negotiating real estate transactions and have nearly no idea about how to advise buyer's or seller's as to the best way to either purchase or sell their home.
I can’t imagine using a doctor who took a few classes, passed a few tests and had no real world experience. It would be akin to having a first year medical student do open heart surgery. There is a chance that with proper studying he / she could have a positive outcome. But in reality, there is more likely chance of a real tragedy happening. Even if the tragedy was not noticed right away.
This person basically said that realtors have no value except to push the paperwork through. Just not in those exact words. At first I was a bit shocked from his comment, but then realized that many people think the exact same way. Especially since it is very easy for people to get their real estate license. Take a few courses, prepare for a test, take a test and you can now sell real estate (in a nut shell). Interesting, new agents want to get paid big fees, but most (not all) have no real time experience negotiating real estate transactions and have nearly no idea about how to advise buyer's or seller's as to the best way to either purchase or sell their home.
I can’t imagine using a doctor who took a few classes, passed a few tests and had no real world experience. It would be akin to having a first year medical student do open heart surgery. There is a chance that with proper studying he / she could have a positive outcome. But in reality, there is more likely chance of a real tragedy happening. Even if the tragedy was not noticed right away.
After all
of that being said, I do think that newer agents to bring something very
valuable to the home purchasing / selling process. "A willingness to
learn." Many agents that have been selling for years and think they
know it all. No need to learn anything new. The old way / their
way, works just fine... They will take their continuing education classes, but
only so that they can renew their license.
When
selling or buying a home, make sure that your agent is experienced enough to
successfully negotiate your transaction and is willing to utilize the newest
tools and techniques help you stay protected and safe weather buying or selling
a home.
If you are thinking of using a new agent (maybe a
friend, family member, co-worker etc.) make sure that they are part of a bigger
team. Not just part of a great office, but a true team. Otherwise,
you may be dealing with an agent that has to go to his / her manager for every new question that
comes up. Which in fact will be almost all of the questions that come up.
And, there is a good chance that they information they need will not
always be available when they need it most. Being part of a bigger team
ensures that the newer agent will have the necessary training and mentoring to
make your transaction as smooth and profitable.
Celebrating nearly 25 years os selling real estate and looking forward to many more to come...
BRE #
01125380 – since 1991
Intero
Real Estate Services
408-482-0992
