Los Altos Real Estate Blog

As most real estate agents know, home buyers and sellers frequently chose their agent based on a number of variables outside our control.  They may meet an agent at an open house, be referred by a friend, or do their own research to find who they think it "best" in their book.  Regardless of the method, these people will select an agent who is brand new almost as readily as they'll chose someone who has been in the business 20 years.  The reasons for their choice can vary just as widely.  As a consumer, how do you chose a real estate agent?

There are several possible ways to find an agent but once you do, you have the task of determining which one to work with.  If you're a typical consumer, you've probably had at least one friend refer an agent to you.  You've probably also worked with an agent in the past that you might reconsider and, if you've been out house hunting or looking at the local papers, you have met or called other agents.  From those, who do you select?  Rather than focus on their statistics or reputation, here are some factors you should consider:

Personality - This is the biggest aspect of choosing an agent.  You need to find someone who is like-minded and who you can work with.  The process of buying or selling a home requires a strong working relationship.  You need to find an agent you like, enjoy being with, respect, and trust.  If you choose a top producer you don't like but respect, it may be hard to listen to them when it comes time to make difficult decisions.  Choose the personality that works best for you.

Professionalism - Personal taste aside, professionalism is a combination of how an agent looks, dresses, talks, and carries themselves when interacting with other agents, buyers, sellers, and you.  There are flamboyant agents who are very professional but dress funny.  There are agents who look disheveled but converse like a lawyer.  You have to select the agent who demonstrates the right mix of qualities to represent you.  They are your gateway to the world of real estate so choose wisely.

Experience - A lot of agents will tell you that because they've been in "the business" 20 years, they're the best person for the job.  Not necessarily.  A pure sales background may not be in your best interest.  Choosing an agent who has a solid business background, has done a lot of negotiating (in any industry), understands finance, and other factors could be just as good or better.  You have to pick the agent who has the kind of experience you need. 

Sales Statistics - Don't waste your time considering this as a factor.  Here's why: volume or price aren't always the measure of what will work for you.  A new agent who sold 4 homes could do a better job for you than a top producer with a team.  Why?  Because a lot of high volume agents are also very hands off - they don't spend much time with you and you'll spend more time talking to their assistant or staff than to them.  That isn't always the case, but keep the relationship in mind when considering using stats as a variable. 

If you're looking to buy or sell a home in Silicon Valley, give me a call.  I specialize in off-market, hard-to-find, properties in Los Altos and Los Altos Hills, but am happy to help anyone.