What Should You Expect from Your Broker?
By Jim Palmer Jr.

In the real estate world, there are many different players who have influence in the outcome of a transaction, including appraisers, inspectors, lenders and contractors.  Arguably the most essential is the real estate broker who bears the overall burden for the work load and coordination of the whole process from start to finish.  I liken that role to a conductor of a symphony, who directs different players during the process in order to assure the best outcome. 

Critics usually think the main duty of a broker is to provide effective marketing, even though this task is only the tip of the iceberg in terms of their value.  Criticism usually begins when the property seems to languish on the market beyond the expected time.  That’s when nit-picking family members or know-it-all friends (the committee), come out of the woodwork to place blame on faulty actions or inactions of the broker, but if you have chosen someone who has a problem-solver mindset, they will adjust marketing strategies when things don’t go as planned. 

You want that broker to be self motivated with tons of hustle and tenacity, and who has enough honesty and integrity to give you the straight scoop.  That might mean they will tactfully let you know when your expectations for price are unrealistic, or when your house stinks of pet odor, or that you need to de-clutter.  

If your broker is not as attentive to detail as you’d like, create opportunity to communicate your desires for a different strategy, instead of remaining silently disgruntled.  You’ll want someone who can connect with your personality and your desires.  Most complaints against brokers come because of communication gaps. Don’t expect to be a dictator!  Real estate brokers are independent and entrepreneurial by nature and are typically opinionated about their proven practices, but that doesn’t mean they won’t appreciate respectful discourse and be able to adapt.

Your broker should be one who understands the local housing market and distinguishes themselves from the competition.  Successful brokers are go-getters, but also go-givers who aren’t afraid to add value without expecting remuneration.  These types of people have a vast network of connections in the communities they serve and are a rich resource for you to utilize.
The hallmark of a broker with the “trust-edge” is one who is competent and knowledgeable.  Like that hidden portion of an iceberg, much of what they do to protect your interests’ goes unseen when their expertise and knowledge just makes things happen.