In today’s world, the Real Estate industry has become over populated. Realty offices can be found on practically every corner and shopping for an agent takes almost as much research as shopping for a home. Not every realtor is going to be the best fit for you, so it is important to find one that you are comfortable working with and can trust throughout the whole entire listing process and sales transaction. While personality as well as common interest may play a part in helping you decide who to pick, there are also some essential basics that are necessary and most important when going through this major life change. Here are a few qualities to look for throughout your interview process.

1.)    Local Knowledge. Local knowledge is helpful, especially in a town like Lake Tahoe, for multiple reasons. Local Realtors are familiar with the homes in the area, meaning they can genuinely tell you what your home is worth based on actual comparable properties both present and historically. They will already know homes that are a good fit for you before they even pull up the MLS, as well as which homes to steer clear of due to major maintenance issues or set backs that can’t be seen from online photos. In addition to being an expert resource on the local market, they can also assist in what schools are the best as well as reputable doctors, dentists and other service providers.

2.)    Representation and Connections. A quality Realtor will not only work with a reputable company with a strong branding package, but they will also have connections. Connections in the real estate industry include a large sphere of influence, a prospective buyer or seller list as well as a good working relationship with the other local agents in town. Having those real estate connections on good terms is essential because other agents will look forward to working with your agent, and hopefully make the deal go smoother for both clients.

3.)    Organized with attention to detail. This is absolutely non-negotiable. The whole point of a Realtor is to ensure that the home selling and or buying process is smooth and seamless. If your agent is scattered and unorganized, chances are the process is going to not only be slowed down, but you will be redoing paperwork and forms that you shouldn’t as well as spending more time communicating about the process than you would probably prefer. When your Realtor is organized and pays attention to detail, not only will your home be marketed properly in the best publications and online sites, but everything will be done right the first time.

4.)    Professional but determined. Your Realtor should always be professional. However, they should also know when to push back during negotiations with another agent and get what you want and still keep their attitude friendly and polite.

5.)    Honesty. This is probably one of the most important. You will have Realtors you will meet who will tell you what you want to hear and swear everything they say is always in your best interest. An honest Realtor will tell you their genuine opinion on a home price, quality of a house and voice their concern if they feel like you are making a rash reaction or decision. Additionally, they will call right away with bad news, such as a bad inspection report or a last second back out from the other party.

There are several more qualities that you should seek in your Realtor, but these are the foundation of a successful one that will make the experience a pleasant one for you. When searching for a home in the Tahoe Keys, consider Peter Delilli. Peter has local knowledge and is represented by Sotheby’s International Realty, one of the leading Real Estate companies around the globe. He has strong connections in the local industry and is known for his honesty.