In a competitive real estate market, your Malibu real estate agent can be a blessing. Instead of having to haggle with people and learn as much about the market as you can, you can rely on your agent to negotiate on your behalf and explain everything in detail. This is why building a good relationship with your agent is essential. As a buyer or seller, there are several things you can do to improve communication and make the transaction run smoothly.
Communicate
Your agent cannot meet your expectations if you do not outline those expectations from the very beginning. If you do not want to look at listings without certain amenities, or you do not want to buy a house on a certain street, let the agent know. This will save both of you a lot of time and money, as your agent will only look for Malibu homes for sale that match your criteria. If you have concerns about the process, let your agent know. Keeping the lines of communication open is one of the best ways to build trust and respect.
Be Open to Advice
The reason you hire a real estate agent is to get professional advice from someone who has extensive experience in the real estate market. If you are not open to any of your agent’s advice, you could be ruining your chances of making a quick sale. Your agent might suggest that you change the paint colors or remove some personal items from your home. Do not be offended by these suggestions, as you and your agent have the same goal in mind.
Ignore Myths
Many people hesitate to work with a Malibu real estate agent because they have heard myths about the profession and the industry. If you take these myths as truth, you may lose out on the opportunity to work with someone who can help you sell your home or find a dream home. One of the most pervasive myths about agents is that they will price your home too low just to make a quick sale. This is not true, as real estate agents want to help you get as close to your asking price as possible. If you have a question about working with your agent, ask the person directly. This will help clear up any confusion.
Give Feedback
Anyone who provides a service needs feedback to ensure that you have the best experience possible. If you do not provide your agent with feedback, you are taking away the opportunity for the agent to make sure you are truly satisfied with his or her services. Give honest feedback, but do not resort to rude remarks if you are dissatisfied. Additionally, you should give negative feedback immediately instead of waiting until the end of the process. If your agent does not know that you are unhappy, he or she will not have the opportunity to make the situation right.
Russell Grether of Compass Real Estate is a real estate agent based out of Malibu, CA. He specializes in Malibu real estate, Malibu homes for sale, Malibu properties, Malibu Land for sale, Malibu rentals and surrounding area real estate from Montecito to the Pacific Palisades.