Finding a trusted agent: Our top tips

Buying, Selling

Get more out of your real estate experience

Finding a trusted agent in today’s dynamic real estate market can be tricky. Every agent should have exceptional sales skills, but what truly sets a standout agent apart is their ability to build personal connections and share your values. Nic Goodman, premium property specialist and founder of Mint, has years of experience delivering exceptional results. Here, Nic shares the key traits and her top tips that make a real estate agent extraordinary and the essential questions you should ask to find the perfect agent for your property.

A trusted advisor

Buying or selling a home is about more than signing a contract - it’s a journey that requires trust, expertise, and guidance. While any agent can navigate the mechanics of a sale, exceptional agents act as trusted advisors, offering support, solutions, and strategies to add value every step of the way. With so many agents to choose from, how can you find the standouts? This guide will help you identify exceptional agents and arm you with the right questions to uncover their expertise.

Your advocate with exclusive insights

Your real estate agent should not just represent you – they should advocate for you. A great agent leverages their exclusive access to industry networks, market data, and insider knowledge to give you a distinct advantage.

 

Think of your real estate agent not just as your representative but as your advocate. The right agent will leverage exclusive access to networks, sales data, and insider knowledge, giving you a competitive edge.

 

Questions to ask:

  •  Who is the target market for my property?
  • What is your previous experience?
  •  What network and database do you have access to?

Beyond the sale: your partner in real estate

An exceptional agent is your partner in negotiation, your guide through complex contracts, and your advocate for protecting your interests. Without a skilled agent, you risk navigating these critical steps alone – potentially leading to costly mistakes.

 

Questions to ask:

  •  What can I do to add value to my property?
  • What professional contacts can you connect me with (e.g. home stagers, building inspectors, valuers, tradespeople)?
  • What sales method do you recommend and why?

The power of personal connection

Sales skills and experience are crucial, but compatibility and rapport are just as important. Trust your instincts when choosing an agent. Sit down with them and assess whether they’re personable, honest, competent, and hardworking. A great agent will take the time to understand your goals and create a strategy tailored to your needs.

 

Questions to ask:

  • Will I be working directly with you or a team?
  • Who will manage my open homes and viewings – you or a team member?
  • How do you stay in touch with clients, and how often?
  • Can you provide references from recent sales?

Deep local knowledge, global reach

An agent with deep local knowledge and community ties will always stand out. They understand what drives the market, know how to showcase your property’s unique value, and can provide expert advice on timing, pricing, and marketing.

 

Questions to ask:

  • Which marketing channels will be most effective for my property and why?
  • How will you and your company enhance the value of my property sale?

Exceptional marketing for maximum exposure

In a competitive market, a standout marketing plan is essential to attract buyer interest quickly. At Mint, the focus is on creating tailored campaigns that highlight your property’s unique features, from targeted social media campaigns to professional photography, videography, and multimedia, they ensure your property is seen by the right audience.

 

Questions to ask:

  • Can you outline the marketing strategy you plan to implement for my property?
  • What steps will you take to secure priority placement for my property on popular real estate websites?
  • How will you market my property to your database?

Crafting your ideal real estate partnership

Nic Goodman, premium property specialist and the founder of Mint, is committed to providing exceptional service with integrity and results. Inspired by the values of collaboration and trust, Nic believes that being a good person is the foundation of success in real estate. Whether buying or selling, the right agent can make all the difference. Ask the right questions, trust your instincts, and choose an agent and agency that’s dedicated to your success.

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