If you’ve ever bought or sold a home, or even just thought about becoming a realtor, you’ve probably wondered at some point, what exactly do realtors DO all day? Is it all just showing homes to clients, or making listed homes look and smell good for buyers?
In a word, no!
There is quite a lot of work and planning that goes on behind the scenes before we get to those more “front and center” aspects of what we do as realtors. Here are five things real estate agents do that you may not know about.
Scout Properties
Realtors are very plugged-in to communities and neighborhoods. We pay close attention to homes that may be on the market soon and find opportunities to learn about those homes and foster relationships with homeowners. We also pay attention to shifts and trends in the market, as I explored in my last post, as well as the makeup of the neighborhoods we work in. There are certain demographics that will be more likely to buy or sell homes, and we’re always on the lookout for these opportunities.
Visit Realtor Open Houses
A realtor open house, or broker open house, is an open house not for home buyers, but for real estate agents so we can determine whether the property is right for any of our clients. Realtor open houses are a chance to tour a home that’s just been put on the market, and also for real estate agents to catch up with our colleagues, and offer the selling agent our opinions on the property. Weekends are the busiest time for us real estate agents, so realtor open houses are often held mid-week.
Network with Other Agents
Real estate agents are constantly creating and maintaining relationships. Many of us start by connecting with people we know. And we are constantly networking with other agents to keep abreast of what is happening in our neighborhoods. Knowing as many people as possible, constantly being in contact with the right groups, and performing valuable services, all help in finding new listings for buyers, and offering opportunities for sellers.
Draft and Proof Closing Documents
Who likes doing paperwork? *raises hand*
Real estate agents take care of all the paperwork involved in the buying or selling of your home. This includes the final purchase and sale agreement, the most important document involved in the transaction. This comprehensive document covers all of the important aspects of the sale, including the sale price, the terms of closing, included disclosures, tax information, and more. We work with the other agent involved in the transaction to come to terms that every party can agree with.
Fiercely Negotiate Multiple Offers
Real estate brokers have to have sharp negotiation skills, especially when working on multiple listings and offers. I’m always going to put my client’s needs first, which means I’m ready to do whatever it takes to get that offer accepted for my buyers, or get the best possible offer for my sellers. And when we get to celebrate closing day together, it’s the best feeling in the world!
If you’re ready to take that first step towards buying or selling a home, give me a call today!