What makes a good real estate agent: 6 Essential Skills for Success today!

In the ever-evolving world of real estate, the role of a real estate agent is paramount. Whether you’re buying, selling, or investing in property, having a skilled and reliable real estate agent by your side can make all the difference. 

A lot has changed over the past 10 years, real estate agents have had to learn new skills and behaviours to adapt to customers’ needs and expectations – but not all have.  

In this blog, we explore six key skills and behaviours that make a good real estate agent in 2024!

1. Follow-Through: The Agent you sign up with is the Agent who does the work

We continue to hear stories where the agent someone signs up with isn’t the agent who does the work, and this ultimately impacts the outcome. 

We believe that an exceptional agent distinguishes themselves through consistent and reliable follow-through. We highly recommend that you choose an agent that is committed to every step of the sale of your property. An agent that is actively involved in critical aspects of the process, such as conducting property openings and managing auctions. This hands-on approach ensures that the agent has an intimate understanding of your property and potential buyers, enabling them to address queries effectively and showcase the property’s unique features. This dedication is indispensable in achieving optimal results. 

2. Adaptability and Flexibility

The real estate market is dynamic, with trends changing rapidly. Agents in 2024 must be adaptable and able to navigate through the ever-shifting landscape. Whether it’s staying updated on the latest market trends, technology, or legal regulations, being flexible is key to overcoming challenges and ensuring clients receive the best service possible. 

Adaptability also extends to being open to new marketing strategies and tools that can enhance their effectiveness in reaching potential buyers or sellers – and it’s here where many real estate agents aren’t keeping pace with many franchise agents being hamstrung by their corporate office. 

3. Effective and Adaptable Communication Skills

It’s no surprise that communication is at the top of the list. Effective communication is the cornerstone of a successful real estate agent, but it goes beyond merely relaying information. A top-notch agent understands the importance of adapting their communication style to suit the preferences of their clients and ensuring you are an active listener. 

A crucial aspect of adaptability is recognising that clients have diverse communication preferences. Whether it’s through traditional methods like phone calls or texts, or leveraging modern platforms such as social media and email, a skilled agent knows how to reach clients when and how they prefer. This adaptability not only fosters a stronger client-agent relationship but also ensures that clients are consistently informed and engaged throughout the real estate process.

Furthermore, keeping clients informed about market trends, property values, and the progress of their transactions instils confidence and fosters a positive client-agent relationship.

4. Exceptional Negotiation Skills

Negotiation is the superpower of a real estate agent. It’s a critical aspect of real estate transactions, and a skilled negotiator can secure the best outcome for their clients, whether buying or selling. This involves not only getting the best price but also ensuring favourable terms and conditions. 

A successful real estate agent has the life experience to know when to push, when to compromise, and when to stand firm, ensuring their clients’ interests are protected throughout the negotiation process. 

5. Local Market Knowledge and Expertise

A successful real estate agent possesses in-depth knowledge of the local market. The Agents that stand out are those who understand property values, neighbourhood dynamics, and current market trends by getting involved in the community. 

6. Ethical and Professional Conduct

In 2024, there is no excuse for unprofessional conduct in real estate. What makes a good real estate agent is one who maintains a high level of integrity, adheres to ethical standards, is transparent in all dealings, and prioritises the client’s best interests.

A really good real estate agent is also respectful, by being punctual and paying attention to detail.

It’s hard to know what makes a good real estate agent when our environment and needs change so regularly. However, we believe these skills are a great place to start when you are looking for an agent in 2024. Talk with the team at Atria about our skills and experience and how we keep enhancing our skills to meet the needs of our clients. Contact us on 03 8680 9421 or email us today.