Agents Must Adapt in the Post-Settlement Real Estate Landscape

The recent National Association of Real Estate Editors conference highlighted some hard truths about the future of real estate: consumers are demanding more, and agents will have to work harder to prove their value in a post-settlement world.

"Realtors are going to have to show up," stated Mike Crowley, broker and founder of Spokane Home Buyers. Crowley emphasized that in an environment where buyers must sign contracts, expectations will extend beyond merely opening doors. As the past president of the National Association of Exclusive Buyer Agents, he noted, "They’re going to expect you to be there and to be prepared to answer questions."

The sentiment was echoed by Ben Caballero, CEO of HomesUSA.com. "People don’t like us," he remarked bluntly, attributing this perception to the significant verdict against the industry last year. "This was their opportunity to reduce the cost of buying and selling a home, and they took advantage of it." He stressed the need for a better balance between services and fees to change this attitude.

Matt Hendricks, a licensed broker and senior director at Zillow, pointed out that this shift is about more than just money. It’s about the quality of service. He said, "Moving forward, you're going to develop a much better bond and much better communication with the agent you're working with because they are invested in it much more than they have been before."

Despite the increased demands and the likelihood of earning less, Crowley remains optimistic about the future of the profession. "Agents aren't going anywhere," he said. "Whether you buy, sell, or rent, the agent is your guide through the transaction, your therapist, your negotiator, your local expert, your mediator, and the one who helps solve problems, remove roadblocks, and teach you things."

The conference made it clear that while the landscape is changing, skilled and dedicated real estate agents will continue to be vital to the home buying and selling process.

View the Original story on RealEstateNews.com by Author: Stephanie Reid Simons