A Good Real Estate Agent Is Critical in A Buyer's Market

It's undeniable that the U.S. is going through one of the worst housing markets in recent memory. It seems that every time we think we've reached bottom, average prices drop another 10% to 20%. For those trying to sell their homes, the numbers can be disheartening. However, it's important to keep in mind that even though we are in a 'buyer's market', houses are still getting sold, and a good real estate agent can be very helpful in getting a home sold even in a market like this.

Choosing a realtor that is one of the top real estate agents in the marketplace can be difficult if you don't know what to look for. Here are 5 qualities that a top real estate broker or agent will possess:

1. A commitment to his career.

The first thing you need to know when considering a real estate agent for which to list your home is if they do this as a full time career. These days, there are many people who work full time jobs during the week, then work as a part-time realtor on the weekends. Back in the days of the housing boom, it may have been okay to work with someone like that, but in today's market, you need a real estate broker with a commitment to getting his/her client's homes sold.

2. Membership in the National Association of Realtors

Here is another indication of how serious the real estate broker/agent you are considering is. Have they taken the basic step of becoming a member of the nation's largest realtor trade group? If they haven't, this is a strong indication that this person is not as serious about selling homes as he/she should be.

3. Knowledge of your local community

When you are looking for a real estate agent to get your home sold, doesn't it only make sense to choose someone who is located close to your neighborhood and has worked with other homeowners in your community? A realtor who is close by will have a much better 'feel' for what's happening with other homes in the area and be able to get your home priced appropriately, so it doesn't sit on the market for months without being sold.

4. A first class team of associates

These days, the best realtors out there have a good team of various experts they work with. For example, a top real estate agent will normally work with first class mortgage brokers, home inspectors, and staging professionals that are able to combine their talents to insure a prompt and smooth transaction for the seller (and buyer).

5. Cutting edge marketing techniques

These days, it's not enough just to be committed to the sale, know the local community, and work with the best team, a top real estate broker must also be using 'out of the box' marketing techniques (both online and offline) to deliver the most possible traffic from prospective buyers. Remember, sales of any kind comes down to a 'numbers game.' The more people look at your home, the more likely you are to find a buyer willing to pay close to your asking price within a reasonable period of time.