Whether it's your first time or fifth time, buying a home is a huge life change. Having a great real estate agent is paramount in making the purchase as easy and enjoyable as possible. So what determines a great real estate agent? This list of ten qualities shows some of the characteristics every home buyer should look for.

1. Licensed - Many home buyers presume that all real estate professionals are licensed real estate agents. Unfortunately, there are people who prey on inexperienced buyers and practice the trade without a license. In most U.S. jurisdictions, a person must have a license before they may receive remuneration for real estate-related services. It's a good idea to do some homework on your state's real estate laws if you are uncertain.


2. Personable – During this process, you'll be spending a lot of time with your chosen real estate agent. They will also be your liaison to several other important people during the home buying journey. This is why an agent with good interpersonal skills is a must. A rude or stand off-ish agent could mean trouble.


3. Knowledgeable - Make sure your real estate agent knows a thing or two about the local market and neighborhoods. How much homes sell for in certain areas, school districts, and possible city annexation zones are some things your real estate agent should discuss with you when browsing properties.


4. Integrity - Good ethics are essential in the real estate industry. Simply put, a real estate agent who puts their own agenda before your needs is untrustworthy. When dealing with such a major transaction, trust in your real estate agent is invaluable.


5. Resourceful - The agent you hire should be able to provide you with a list of home inspectors, mortgage lenders and real estate attorneys. Beware of the agent who tries to direct you to one specific person. They should also be able to direct you to city services if you're new to the area.


6. Familiar With Technology - Since so much of the house hunting and home buying process is done online today, it's wise to hire an agent who is tech savvy. Set up a meeting with your agent to go through MLS listings. Many agents have computer/television screens set up in their office so that clients can see everything the agent is clicking through. It may seem like a small thing, but after sitting through two hours of an agent struggling through their own company's web site, you'll realize how important it is.


7. Great Communication – Real estate agents should communicate well and often. Pay attention to how quickly your agent responds to emails and phone calls. Real estate agents are busy, but communicating with you is part of their job. If you contact an agent who cannot take on more clients because their workload is full, they should promptly inform you and refer you to someone else. There's no excuse for not returning messages, or avoiding a conversation if unpleasant news must be delivered.


8. Realistic - This is a quality that people need in a real estate agent, but don't always want. Whether you're buying or selling, an honest and realistic agent is important. You want someone who'll say things like, "The neighborhood you like is prone to flooding, which means you'll have to pay more for insurance," or "I know you like "vintage," but this 1980s stove should be updated." It might not be what you want to hear, but it'll be beneficial in the long run.


9. Understands Your Needs – As a buyer or seller, you will establish with your agent what criteria you're looking for: price, location, amenities, etc. It's important to be honest with yourself and your agent when it comes to what you want. For instance, if you know you want a house with a fenced yard, tell that to your agent. If adding a fence yourself later isn't an option, make sure you tell them that, too. Also remember that you're entitled to change your mind, and a good real estate agent should be able to roll with the changes as you decide what direction you want to go.


10. Experienced - Although there are many talented and resourceful agents who are fresh in the field, it can be valuable to have an agent who has several years experience. Experienced agents have lots of contacts in the industry, know their way around a contract and are comfortable negotiating. That being said, if you find an agent who meets all the above criteria, but is new to the profession, don't automatically count them out. Most agents offer a period of time where you can "work" with them before you enter a binding contract. Real estate agents understand that not everyone is a good match, and they shouldn't take it personally if you decide to go with a different agent.

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About the Author:
Steph Medeiros is a marketing professional who helps mortgage lenders promote their brands, products, and mortgage rates online.

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