Is your real estate agent giving you the best service?
Real estate agents build their businesses by providing excellent customer service. Helping people buy and sell homes requires not only market knowledge and business savvy but terrific people skills. Have you ever met an aloof, shoe-gazing real estate agent? Probably not.
When the time comes to move to a new home in Florida, work with an experienced agent who’s a member of a reputable brokerage. You also want to find someone who understands customer service—they’ll have your best interests at heart and support you through the whole process.
Here are a few tips for finding a real estate agent who prioritizes customer service.
1. They call you back right away.
General business principles dictate that we should return phone calls and emails within 24 hours. In today’s competitive real estate market, your dream home could be gone in one day.
Look for an agent who emails, texts, or calls you back quickly and provides relevant information. Weichert, Realtors—Hallmark Properties, a full-service real estate company with more than 900 agents in 20 offices throughout Florida, returns phone calls within 15 minutes. If you don’t reach an agent directly, the call center is open from 8:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.
2. They know how to communicate.
An agent emailed you back immediately. Fabulous! But if they responded to your inquiry about selling your family’s home with a brisk, two-word reply, you didn’t receive great service.
Thoughtful communication leaves a strong impression. “Hello Jean, I would love to learn more about your home and how I can help. May I call you at 5:30 p.m. this afternoon?” That sounds more encouraging than “sounds great lmk.”
3. They overdeliver.
An agent doesn’t have to show up with a fruit basket to make a good impression. Simple actions, such as providing a market report that helps you decide between two neighborhoods or information about the golf course in a prospective new city, show that the agent can anticipate your needs. When you’re faced with weighty decisions, such as which home to buy, it helps to have a partner who knows what you need before you need it.
4. They show gratitude.
Do you have a friend who remembers everyone’s birthday and sends thank-you cards for everything? That’s one thoughtful friend. If your real estate agent shows you the same consideration, you’re in good hands.
An agent mailing you a handwritten note to thank you for your time or your business shows they appreciate you. That same agent will likely provide thoughtful service throughout your home-buying process—and they’ll probably send you a birthday card.
5. They consistently improve.
Solo practitioners can provide great customer service. However, in an industry that changes constantly, agents have to continually work on professional development; improve their sales, marketing, and customer service skills; and learn new technology. Agents who are part of a strong team usually have access to regular training that solo agents don’t have.
Weichert, Realtors—Hallmark Properties offers its agents weekly training at no cost to them. Agents have access to the tools they need to help you get the best price for your home, whether you’re buying or selling. They also work on accountability, goal-setting, and communication.
When you work with a Weichert, Realtors—Hallmark Properties agent, you know they won’t suddenly stop returning your calls or freeze in the middle of a contract negotiation. They work hard to deliver the customer service you expect.
Buying or selling a home in Florida? Call Weichert, Realtors—Hallmark Properties at 1-800-409-7368 or visit its website to find an agent near you.