Finding the right real estate agent in Lehigh Valley can often feel like a daunting task. With so many options available, how can you effectively navigate the process to identify a competent and trustworthy professional to assist you?
Many of the larger local real estate brokerages invest significant sums—sometimes thousands of dollars each month—into ensuring their agents are highly visible. This visibility often comes in various forms, such as online advertisements, listings in the Yellow Pages, or the presence of large billboards placed in high-traffic areas throughout Lehigh Valley.
However, it’s essential to understand that the agents who receive the most marketing dollars aren’t always the most qualified or the best match for your specific needs. In this article, we will explore effective strategies to help you find a good real estate agent in Lehigh Valley.
[NOTE: If you need to sell your Lehigh Valley house quickly and can’t afford to wait the lengthy 3-6 months (or longer) it typically takes to sell a home on the local market, we may be able to help by purchasing your house directly. We can make you an all-cash offer within 24 hours on your house in as-is condition.]
How To Find A Good Real Estate Agent In Lehigh Valley – Get Reviews… Real Reviews
When seeking a reputable real estate agent, one of the first steps is to look for genuine online reviews. Unfortunately, many online reviews can be manipulated, often resembling little more than paid advertisements. Therefore, it’s crucial to seek out honest reviews from any agent you’re considering. A reputable agent should be more than willing to provide you with references from their recent clients.
Reviews can serve as an invaluable resource to gauge how well any real estate professional performs in the market. Additionally, you can conduct a quick search on Google by typing in “[name of agent] reviews” to see what information surfaces. If you come across numerous negative reviews on sites like Yelp and others, take a moment to assess whether the agent has made efforts to engage with those reviewers online in an attempt to resolve their issues.
Ask the Right Questions Of The Local Lehigh Valley Real Estate Agent
When evaluating potential agents, asking the right questions can help you gauge their skill level and their ability to effectively represent you, whether you’re buying or selling. Consider asking the agent or, even better, their former clients the following questions:
- Were there any aspects of the home buying or selling process that clients found particularly satisfying or, conversely, disappointing?
- What was the initial asking price for the property?
- What was the final sales price?
- What types of properties have you successfully dealt with in my area?
- Have you worked with properties of a similar size and style to mine?
Selecting an agent with experience in homes similar to yours is crucial to achieving a successful sale.
Check The Real Estate Agent’s Credentials
It’s wise to verify the credentials of any real estate agent you are considering. Check with your state’s real estate regulatory authority to confirm the agent’s licensing status. While you’re on that site, you can also investigate any regulatory actions or complaints that may have been filed against the agent.
Additionally, inquire about how long the agent has been in the real estate business. If they are part of a brokerage, ask how long they have been with that specific agency and what their history has been with other firms. Above all, it’s imperative to choose a real estate agent in Lehigh Valley whom you can trust. Regular and open communication is vital when selling your home, as a house often represents the majority of your net worth. A dependable agent will be able to answer important questions such as:
- How many inquiries have been made regarding my home?
- How many of these inquiries are from serious potential buyers rather than casual browsers?
- What other properties in this neighborhood are currently on the market, and what are their asking prices?
Ask The Local Real Estate Agent How They Plan On Selling Your House
Sometimes, direct communication is the most effective approach. When seeking a local Lehigh Valley real estate agent, inquire about their specific strategies for selling your house that set them apart from other agents in the area. Pay attention to their response; a great agent will usually have a comprehensive marketing plan ready to showcase your home effectively and attractively.
This Is Where Low-Priced Options Aren’t Always the Best
Often, sellers in Lehigh Valley are tempted to choose the option with the lowest price. While it may seem financially appealing, it’s essential to consider the overall value you are receiving. For instance, if a real estate agent is earning a 3% commission on a $100,000 sale, that equates to $3,000 in fees—typically split between the buyer’s and seller’s agents. While it may not be cheap, conducting thorough research before selecting a discount agent or a flat-fee agent is crucial. Oftentimes, these lower-priced options may correlate with a reduced level of service.
Some of the best real estate agents in Lehigh Valley have established effective marketing systems that can facilitate quicker sales at higher prices. Even if you find someone willing to sell your home for a 1.5% commission, it’s essential to carefully evaluate whether this option will save you money in the long run.
The same principle applies when considering selling your house to a local real estate investor like iBuyLehigh. The highest offer isn’t necessarily the best deal. Take time to review the terms presented by the buyer, ensuring they can meet their closing commitments. Every additional month you hold onto the property incurs costs related to your mortgage, taxes, insurance, utilities, and more.
It’s vital to steer clear of low-quality real estate agents, who may be inexperienced and eager to make their first sale—potentially leaving money on the table in the process. A skilled real estate agent can streamline the selling experience and prioritize your best interests.
So, embark on your research journey and find a local real estate agent who meets your needs.
If you need to sell your house quickly, we would be delighted to make you an all-cash fair offer on your property.
We can provide you with a no-obligation offer in 24 hours or less, allowing you to weigh that option against working with a real estate agent.
Simply click the link below and fill out the brief form on the following page to initiate this straightforward process.