Third in a series

I have spent the last two issues suggesting ways that you can enhance your overall home ownership experience. I began by discussing the roles of the home owner and home seller. This issue I would like to continue this discussion by focusing on the role of the real estate agent and how the right Realtor can improve your experience, regardless of what stage of home ownership you are in.

The role of the real estate agent has evolved greatly over the last several years, coming a long way from open houses and home tours. Today’s agent has access to modern tools that not only enhance the home ownership experience but simplify it too.

Modern technology has played a very active hand in changing the role of the real estate agent. Cellular phones, laptop computers, digital cameras, the internet and e-mail make agents instantly accessible and allow them to maximize possibilities, increasing the potential of both home buying and selling opportunities.

Many real estate companies also have web sites, providing an invaluable service to agents and their clients. An agent can take a digital image of a home, upload it onto their website, assign a unique address for that home, and have it posted and ready for eager eyes in a matter of minutes. This service is currently offered by some, but is quickly becoming an expectation of many as the real estate industry strives to meet the needs of their customers.

The one thing that will never change, regardless of modern advances, is good old-fashioned customer service. State-of-the-art technology enhances customer service, but will never replace it. A quality agent understands this and will practice personalized service by actively listening to your needs and communicating with you regularly. They should be trustworthy, a market expert and manage transactions efficiently. Your agent is also someone that you should come to rely upon even once the papers are signed and the for sale sign is gone. Home ownership is a cycle that your agent should move through with you, providing support and services along the way.

In today’s real estate market, when access to information is instant and people are on the go, it’s more important than ever to understand the role of a quality real estate agent. Modern technology has provided many benefits, including improving efficiency and communication. This combined with an agent who understands the importance of a friendly, long-term client-relationship, can only result in one thing — enhancement of your home ownership experience.

(Editor’s Note: J. Lennox Scott, is president of John L. Scott Real Estate. He may be reached at realnews@johnlscott.com, or visit his firm’s award-winning website at www.johnlscott.com.).