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In a study by the Canadian Real Estate Assoc. in 2003 and
2005, the public was polled to get their opinion on what they
believed were the attributes of a good realtor. The following is
a brief description of some of the most valued attributes.

1. Trust

Being able to trust their agent is one of the most valued attributes
by the public. Consumers tended to give the benefit of the doubt
to agents who were referred to them by a friend, or family member.
However, the Realtor still had a ways to go to earn deep trust.
To build trust agents need to do things like being patience when
showing homes, following through on promises and responding promptly. 

2. Expert and Specific market knowledge
People are looking for agents who have insights into specific
neighbourhoods. Knowledge about schools, and other key area
amenities. They value Realtors who have a network of other
trusted vendors like: contractors, landscapers, mortgage brokers
and cleaning services. They want advice or tips that will help
them make informed decisions.

3. Good listener
According to participants in the survey, the ability of Realtors to
listen was greatly lacking. They want an agent who will listen to
their needs and wants and respond accordingly.

4. Effective negotiator
Buyers and sellers alike are not comfortable doing their own negotiation.
So they value highly an agent who can negotiate effectively on their
behalf. So why not read a few books on how to improve your
negotiation skills?

5. Patience
Buying or selling is a big decision for most people, so they can often
be emotional and stressed out. Consumers want agents who will
understand this and create an environment that will help reduce
their stress and be patient with them. They want agents to be
flexible with them as they go through the process.

6. Attention to details
According to the survey agents who were very attentive to all the
details of the transaction was “highly prized”.  They want to feel
comfortable that none of their issues will fall through the cracks.

7. Attentive and responsive
Consumers valued agents who did more for them than just list their
home on the MLS. They value agents who respond quickly and
timely to their issues and concerns. Many were insulted by agents
who did not return phone calls or reply to emails. There is a belief
that agents will not reply to emails for those in the age group of (21-34).  
People want one on one attention. Make them feel like they are
your only client and they will reward you with lots of referrals
   
8. Hardworking
In hot markets, sellers want agents who will market their homes
to make them stand out. In slower markets they want to be assured
that their agent is pulling out all the stops to market their home.
Consumers describe good or effective Realtors as one working
hard to promote a property or pouring over listings to find their
dream home. “Agents that do this are described as having done
their homework”

Source for this article: Report by the Canadian Real Estate Assoc.