That “gut feeling” really does matter. I’ve seen people ignore it and regret it later. You mentioned,
—I’ve found that to be true more often than not. Sometimes experience is great, but if someone’s not listening, it doesn’t matter how many houses they’ve sold. Trusting your instincts is a solid first step. Just remember to check their credentials and references too... a little due diligence goes a long way.Sometimes the newer folks are hungrier and way more attentive.
I get what you’re saying about “gut feeling,” but I’ve seen folks get burned by charmers who talk a good game. Credentials and references are huge for me. Last time I bought, I actually called two past clients—awkward, but worth it. That said, I do agree with this:
. I’d rather have someone new who pays attention than a veteran who’s checked out.if someone’s not listening, it doesn’t matter how many houses they’ve sold
Calling past clients isn’t awkward at all—smart move. I’ve seen too many “top producers” who just phone it in. Credentials matter, but I’d add:
- Watch how they handle your questions. If they dodge or rush, red flag.
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—couldn’t agree more. I’ve had rookies hustle harder than some 20-year vets.if someone’s not listening, it doesn’t matter how many houses they’ve sold
- Ask about deals that didn’t go well. How they talk about mistakes says a lot.
Gut feeling’s fine, but back it up with real info.
Totally get what you’re saying about listening being more important than a resume. I once had a realtor who’d sold a ton of homes, but she barely let me finish a sentence before jumping in with her “expert” advice. Ended up switching to someone newer who actually listened to my budget worries and didn’t push me toward stuff I couldn’t afford. Credentials are nice, but if they’re not paying attention, what’s the point?
Honestly, I’ve seen this happen a lot—some agents get so caught up in their own track record that they forget who’s actually buying the house. I’m with you on the listening thing. Experience is great, but if someone’s not actually hearing what matters to you, it just doesn’t work.
I’ve worked with agents who’ve been in the business forever, and yeah, sometimes they’re just running on autopilot. The best ones, in my opinion, are the ones who ask more questions than they answer at first. If you feel like you’re being rushed or pushed toward something outside your comfort zone, that’s usually a red flag.
I always tell people to trust their gut after a couple of meetings. If you feel heard and respected, that’s a good sign you’re in the right hands. Credentials look good on paper, but they’re not everything.