The short answer
Green flags: an agent who will tell you when not to buy or sell, explains every document, gives you regular updates on your listing, and does real estate full time. Red flags: an agent who rushes you through paperwork, takes your listing at any price just to get a sign on the lawn, or cuts their commission to win the listing.
Does your realtor suck? I don't know. That's what we're about to find out.
Green flags
- They'll tell you when not to buy or sell. A pro is willing to walk away from a deal when they know it isn't right for you.
- They give you regular updates on your listing. You should know everything that's going on: showings, feedback, online views and what's changing in the market.
- They do this full time. A pro focuses on their craft every day, with no backup plan.
- They explain every document. You should understand exactly what you're signing and why.
Red flags
- They throw paperwork at you without explaining it. That's an agent trying to rush you through something you might not be comfortable with.
- They'll take your listing at any price. That's an agent who just wants a sign in the ground. If the price isn't backed by comparable sales, it usually means a price drop later.
- They cut their commission just to get the listing. If they can't negotiate for their own paycheque, think about how they'll negotiate for yours.
Ask the hard questions
When you interview agents, ask them to show you the comparable sales behind their price, how often you'll hear from them, and about their negotiation training. I'm happy to answer all of those. You can see every home I've sold and read more about how I work.