4 Things to Look For in a Real Estate Agent

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Sometimes it feels like there are a million real estate agents out there. The question is, what should you be looking for to find the right one to help you buy or sell a house? Up here in the High Country there are specifics things that I think make agents stand out from others. Topography, elevation, weather, size, demographic, tourism, and location make the High Country a very unique place to be. All of these factors require agents to have special understanding of the area.

Here are 4 things you need to look for in a real estate agent.

#1: Solid References and Recommendations

I believe recommendations are the best way to find an agent. Friends can share their experiences and let you know who to use or worse, who not too. If you are not connected with anyone to ask directly then be sure to check out reviews online. If you read through others’ testimonies about their experiences with agents and agencies you can get a feel of the quality of work being done by the firm and the agents in it.

#2: They Know Trusted Service Providers

You want an agent who has connections and relationships with service providers. Some agents are new to the business but have lived in the area for a long time. They may already know anyone and everyone and will have tons of resources to get the job done quickly and by the best people. We have a list of local service providers our office recommends that is really beneficial for people new to the High Country.

#3: They Work Well with Others

You want an agent who is personable, has the ability to work well with you but also with other agents. We are a small, local area and agents that know how to work well with their peers are able to achieve the best quality deals for their clients. If you are moving to the area, it is crucial to find an agent willing to welcome you to the community and find the best fit for your needs.

#4: They Know the Area and All Things Real Estate

Knowledge about unique things that are specific to the High Country is a great plus in a real estate agent. In the High Country of North Carolina, your realtor should know a thing or two about being cut out for rural living.

Wells, septic systems, gravel roads, spring fed homes, land purchases and financing available will all be things you want your agent to know about in this area.

As mentioned before, the High Country is a unique place to live. It’s a college town in addition to a vacation destinationIf you’re in the market for a short or long-term vacation rental, working with an agent who has a Resort and Second Property designation can help you manage all your wants and needs. If you’re interested in potential investment properties near Boone, make sure to find an agent who knows handled these types of transactions before.

We believe 828 Real Estate has top notch agents and do not take the business of finding homes for people lightly. This area is all about word of mouth and our business runs on the client being extremely satisfied.

Let us know if we can help you find your next adventure! Submit a request to Perfect Home Finder to have listings you’ll love sent straight to your inbox, request a CMA if you’re a seller, or sign up for our bi-weekly newsletter to stay up to date on all things real estate in the High Country of North Carolina.

About the Author
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I have lived in North Carolina my whole life, 20+ years in the High Country.  I grew up in Chapel Hill with a huge extended family. Naturally, I am a huge UNC fan.  Although my whole family lived in Chapel Hill, the majority of them are Appalachian State graduates. So, when it was time to pick a college, I knew Boone was the place for me.  I came to the mountains because, as my parents had always told me, it is an absolutely beautiful place and the people are so down to earth! That was 1997 and I have lived here ever since.  I met my husband Dave at ASU and we married in 2001.  We have 3 children, Elias, Faith, and Penelope.  Our family lives in Downtown Boone. Dave teaches middle school science at Valle Crucis Elementary School. Before becoming a Real Estate Agent,  I spent 5 years as the co-teacher of the 9-12 year old class at Mountain Pathways Montessori School.  We are elders at our church, Harvest House, where I have taught preschool for the last 20 years.  I can't believe it been that long.... time flies when you’re having fun!  I met Sarah Long, 828 Real Estate's Broker/ Owner, in 1997.  My interest in Real Estate developed when we bought our first home and has grown as we have bought and sold over the years.  Sarah was our Realtor for years and suggested many times that I pursue Real Estate as a full time career.   I am so glad I did.  I am enjoying introducing others to the place I love and call home….I look forward to helping you find your perfect place!