1. How many homes has the Realtor/Broker personally sold?  Not their firm, how many have they personally closed in the Year? In their Career?

Why is this so important?  2013 California Association of Realtors Member Profile Survey Report says the average number of Transactions a Realtor made in 2013 was eight (8).  That means that the average Realtor sold 8 homes in 2013.  I would be very weary of having any professional from any profession represent me if they had only done 8 transactions in a given year.  That would mean that they are not current on what is happening ‘NOW” in their given profession.  Having a Realtor/Broker who is immersed in the Real Estate market and trends will help insure that your interest are being represented more efficiently.

2. Do they do Real Estate Full Time?

I would be very careful to make sure you hire a Real Estate Professional who works full-time in their profession.  Many Realtors do this as a hobby or side job.  Be certain that your Real Estate Professional works full-time and takes their Profession seriously.  Things may be missed or overlooked if your real estate transaction does not have their full and undivided attention.

3. How much Real Estate Education have they had?

Check out to see how many credentials they have.  There are a few very good Designation to look out for, CRS (Council of Residential Specialist) and GRI (Graduate of Realtor Institute). Out of more than 1 million REALTORS®, less than 3 percent are Certified Residential Specialists. It’s the Highest credential awarded to residential agents, manager and brokers.   CRS have been proven to close more transactions than a Realtor w/o this credential.   These credentials are not quick fix Credentials.  They require the Real Estate Agent to take a multitude of 2 day classes.  GRI The GRI℠ is a 92-hour program that provides the real estate tools and knowledge for REALTORS® to meet the 21st century.  “The Graduate REALTOR® Institute (GRI) designation indicates to buyers, sellers and other real estate industry professionals that you have made the commitment to provide a high level of professional service to your clients by securing a strong educational foundation.”  They are required to close a minimum number of transactions as well as have extended amounts education to help them service their clients better.

4. How many years have they been in the business?

This is important because it will show the consumer how much experience they have in dealing with such of an important transaction.  Selling your home is one of the biggest financial decisions that you will ever make.  It makes sense that you would want to hire a seasoned Professional to help with such of an important investment.

5. What checks and balance systems do they have in place to ensure a smooth and easy transaction?

It’s very important to hire a Realtor who is very Pro-active.  Thinking and knowing (based upon experience ) issues that “could” come up and proactively tackling and handling those issues before they arrive is very important.  What system (if any) do they use to help assist them to help ensure a smooth and successful transaction?

Please feel free to contact me at any time.  www.KristaHomes.com  Krista@KristaHomes.com  925-325-4663