How Your Agent Talks About Other Agents Says a Lot About Them

When you interview a real estate agent, listen to how they talk about other agents. Do they get along with them, or do they bash them to win your business?

It happens more than it should. It also shows you something about their character, and you want to see it before you hire them, not after.

Almost every deal involves two agents: the one who represents you and the one who represents the other side. Your agent will spend weeks working with that person on offers, inspections, repairs, deadlines and the closing.

An agent who is respectful and professional with the other side can solve problems quickly. An agent who is quick to argue, or who has a feud with half the area, can make a normal deal harder than it needs to be. The people who pay for that are you and the person across the table.

In the Northwoods, you run into the same people again and again. The agent you negotiate against on a lake home today may be the one bringing you a buyer next month. A reputation for being fair counts for a lot here, and so does a reputation for the opposite.

Getting along with other agents does not mean giving in. I work hard for my clients and I negotiate firmly, and I do it politely. You can disagree with someone on price or terms and still treat them with respect. Often it works better that way, because people are more willing to work with someone they trust.

At Venture North Real Estate Co, I do not talk down about other agents to win a client. If you ask me about another agent or brokerage, I will tell you what I can speak to honestly, and I will focus on what I do and how I would work for you. If I cannot say something fair, I will not say anything.

• How do you work with the agent on the other side of a deal?
• How would you handle a disagreement during a transaction?
• What would you say to a buyer or seller who wants you to be tough? How tough is too tough?

Listen to the answers, and to the way they talk about other agents while giving them.

If you are thinking about selling your home or buying near Crivitz and Surrounding Areas, get in touch and we will talk it through.