David Murray Hume

Choosing a Sales Representative

What you want in a Sales Representative.

There are a number of factors to consider when choosing which sales representative you want to hire. The right sales representative can make the real estate transaction simple and worry free. The wrong person can cost you thousands of dollars and months of worry. Here are some things to consider when you interview a sales representative.

 Will they tell you the truth?

Information is the most important element in a successful real estate transaction. You must be able to rely on your sales representative giving you all the facts, good and bad. Not everything goes they way we want it to. When discussing home prices, home condition, financing, current market conditions and commissions, you need a representative that will give you straight answers, not tell you what you want to hear.

Do they provide the services you need?

Not all sales representatives offer the same services. There is more to a successful real estate transaction than putting a sign on the lawn or showing you to a few homes. Does the representative provide mortgage assistance, full marketing services and other professional such as lawyers, home inspectors and movers? Do they have the latest technology for advertising, research and communications? Can they offer you discounts on products and services you will use during and after your move? Do they have a fully staffed office and reputable company to provide support? Before agreeing to hire a sales representative, make sure they can provide the services you will need.

Have they been fully trained?

Sales representatives need to know how to handle any situation that may arise during a real estate transaction. Ongoing training and skill enhancement is vital to the representative's ability to service your needs. Has the representative been trained in the latest negotiating strategies, legal issues, contract issues, marketing techniques and research technology? Does their office provide regular training and skill enhancement? You are paying for a skill professional. Make sure you are getting one.

Do they have the knowledge?

A sales representative must know their product. In real estate that means the properties and the neighbourhood. The sales representative must demonstrate a working knowledge on past sales, current properties, community services; local market trends and is able to explain how these will affect your real estate transaction.