With Valentine’s Day just passed, there’s no denying love is in the air. Let’s think for a moment about the person who’s always there for you, helping to make your dreams come true. We’re talking about your real estate agent, of course.
Just what does it take to make the agent who’s done so much for you swoon? There are plenty of ways to build a harmonious, lasting, and fulfilling relationship that will take you from starter home to happily ever after.
Check out this list of things that’ll make your agent fall head over heels in love with you.
1. Refer your friends and family
Talking up your real estate agent to friends and family is the greatest gift you can give. Being a connector is a wonderful way to help your favorite agent build and grow their business. Go ahead, brag about how amazing your agent is; they’ll adore you for it.
2. Make sure your open house is pet-free
Barking dogs, loose hamsters, and roaming lizards are a huge turn-off to potential homebuyers. Securing your pets or taking them off-premises will mean the world to your agent, who probably has better things to do than herd your cats.
3. Get pre-approved
Getting pre-approved for a mortgage means you’re a serious buyer, and if you find “the one” you’re good to go. Agents don’t have any time to waste. Knowing that you can come up with the funds at the closing is a weight off their minds. (It also means that you’re not just spending weekends looking at homes because you cancelled cable and can’t think of anything else to do.)
4. You’ll show your home at a moment’s notice
Because no one can predict when a buyer might want to see a home, sellers who are open to a last-minute showing make an agent’s job that must easier. Letting interested parties take a tour when it’s convenient for them may just sell your home that much faster, which is a win for everyone.
5. Commit to keeping your home clean
Nothing makes a house shine quite like keeping it clean and uncluttered. Ensuring your place is “show ready”—from the moment it’s first listed until the closing—eliminates any worries your agent may feel as buyer agents and their clients come to view your house… and that peace of mind is priceless.
6. Up your curb appeal
Recognizing that the front of the home is the first thing would-be buyers see, it’s crucial to keep the exterior well-maintained. Sellers who are on top of cutting the grass and raking the leaves make a great first impression—and as they say, you only have one chance to make a first impression.
7. Take your agent’s advice
Whether it’s about recommended staging or an item that needs to be fixed before the home inspection, following the advice of your expert is beneficial for all parties. After all, you’ve hired a pro, so why not heed their wisdom and reap the rewards?
8. Leave a glowing review on social media or offer a testimonial
Again, sharing the love is a big part of helping your agent gain new clients. Offer to write a testimonial for their website, or share your experience on social media and let the world know you’re crazy about him or her.