I just received an email from Rudy Bachraty, the Social Media Guru who writes for Trulia’s blog. Rudy is asking real estate agents to vote on whether it is better to use someone (Realtor®, doctor, lawyer … or President) with experience OR with up-to-date or new ideas.
Obviously, a combination of both is ideal. However, since real estate agents are often slow to adapt to new technology, if you can’t find an agent who offers both, which would you opt for?
There are many, many agents who have LOTS of experience … years in the business … but they have a great deal of trouble taking photos with digital cameras, emailing pdf files, or even loading their listings into the MLS system or their broker’s web site. And they have NO knowledge of the importance of the Internet or know what to do to gain maximum exposure for their listings. They have the EXPERIENCE but lack the KNOWLEDGE.
Then there are the “newbie” agents who may not have difficulty with the new technology, but have no knowledge (experience) in evaluating what price a home might sell for, or what repairs might be needed in a home to prevent “issues” later, or what things to watch for when reacting to or writing a Purchase Contract or what steps to take to make sure the home STAYS in contract.
As a buyer or seller, which is most important to YOU when selecting a Realtor®?
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Elaine Reese
614-825-8860Real Living HER
2 responses so far ↓
Susan Gruenling // May 22, 2008 at 1:27 pm
If you polled 1,000 people, I would love to know what the results were. And how do you think the responses would correlate with the age of those polled? I see more experienced agents over the age of 60 who have some knowledge of technology and wisely hire outside experts to handle this part of their business. And then there are others who are so technologically illiterate and unwilling to learn the basics needed to ease their life. I think that as more of the younger generations enter homeownership certain technology will be expected. A well rounded agent of course is the best option. And we can all learn from each other.
elainereese // May 22, 2008 at 2:44 pm
I’m seeing some of the “seasoned” agents being quite frustrated with what is expected of them technically. But not all new agents are that techie either which is surprising. They know how to text msg and do great things with their phone, but have no knowledge of how to manage their web site or blog or generate SEO.