Buying or selling a home this year? When it comes to one of the most important legal transactions of your life, it’s vital to have the right players on your team.
“Finding the right real estate agent can be intimidating,” says Linda French, owner of John L. Scott in Sequim and Port Angeles. “But there are some key things that you can ask about and watch for that will help you make the right decision.”
John L. Scott’s key emphasis has always been on quality service and that shines through with their Brokers having full support and guidance from a Principal Broker and their clients also having access to the Principal Broker for additional clarification on all of their questions.
French suggests looking for agents that are in good standing with more than one MLS (Multiple Listing Service) group, are well-known and respected in their community and most importantly, have your best interests at heart.
1. Access to different Multiple Listing Services (MLS’s)
Being members of more than one MLS group allows your agent to see more inventory from the surrounding area, which means more options for you. If you are selling it also means that your home will be seen by more potential buyers.
“For example, our agents are members of the Northwest MLS and the Olympic Listing Service,” French says. “Maintaining our good standing in both MLS groups is a top priority because it allows us to provide our clients with more options.”
2. Respected and trusted members of the community
A well-respected agent who has been in the community for a long time offers many benefits for both buyers and sellers. While a newer well-trained Broker out of an established company can be an energetic set of fresh eyes.
“Having an established agent provides you with confidence in their abilities, and chances are they’ve had many years to form strong connections with local banks, inspectors, and escrow agencies,” French says. “You want someone with those types of strong connections on your team.”
3. Experienced and well-trained
Having an experienced and/or well-trained agent can make or break a deal.
“Selling and/or buying a home is a complicated process that requires all the stars to align in order for things to go smoothly,” French says. “You need someone who knows what they’re doing, when to act swiftly and how to put out fires and/or provide you with options as needed. You as the client are an integral part of the process and communication between you and your broker is key.”
4. Working with your best interests at heart
“It’s important that you find someone honest and trustworthy that is more invested in your long term business than the sale itself,” French says. “Your agent should be working towards helping you achieve your long-term goals and they should act with only your best interests at heart.”
Feel confident that you have the best people in your corner when you need them the most. John L. Scott agents have been trusted and valued members of their communities since 1931.
Find more information about John L. Scott Sequim here or by phone at 1-360-683-4131 and find information about their Port Angeles office here or call them at 1-360-457-8593.