Does an agent’s company brand matter?

Let’s start with a simple truth:  what matters most about your real estate agent is that they have your best interests in mind, and work with you to make your experience a positive one. That is true across all areas of real estate, and there are lots of great brands with agents who fit that description.

Now, here comes the “but…”  There are a lot of reasons to consider the real estate brand of a potential agent, and I believe they are an important part of choosing your Realtor.  In case you don’t find real estate as riveting as I do, I’ll focus on just one—resources.

I don’t mean resources as in money; I mean the total package that a brand brings to the table.  Let me explain.

Real estate brands are built on years of experience, knowledge, and most importantly, the reputations of its agents, and brands are committed to maintaining those reputations.  The best way to do that is by employing outstanding agents who consistently provide great service to their clients.

So brands invest heavily in the education, training, and support of their agents.  From staying on top of the latest real estate trends to continuing education course information, RE/MAX provides us a host of tools to make sure we have everything we need to take care of our clients.  (In fact, RE/MAX Capitol Properties was chosen to film a training video for RE/MAX!  Check out the photos here.)  

Brands also provide an instant network of agents who use the same tools and receive the same training, but who bring their own unique experiences to the office. For example, we have weekly meetings that bring together veteran and new agents, so that everyone can learn from each other.  

One of the greatest resources, though, is the brand itself.  When you’re selling your home, you want to know that your agent has a marketing plan, and the resources to put that plan into action.  When you’re buying a home, you need an agent who is connected with other area agents to make sure you don’t miss a great listing.  When your agent is part of a great brand, you know you’re getting everything that brand stands for. 

No matter how great a brand’s reputation is, it can’t replace a face-to-face interview with prospective agents.  I encourage you to interview more than one agent, to make sure you’re choosing a Realtor who not only has the experience and resources you need, but a personality that fits well with yours.

Until next time!

--Steve