How to Choose a White Rock Real Estate Agent
Congratulations! You’re thinking about buying and/or selling a home in the White Rock area. This is an exciting time! Now it’s time to choose a real estate agent to work with. First of all, when thinking about buying or selling a home in any neighbourhood, it’s always a good idea to hire a local real estate agent. Someone who specializes in that particular area. I’m guessing, however, you already knew that. This is why, when you were searching for a White Rock Realtor you found me.
6 Questions to Ask When Hiring a White Rock REALTOR
Is White Rock Your Area of Expertise?
As a resident of White Rock, I’ve raised my family here and worked here for over 20 years. As a result, I know the area very well. I know the pros and cons of every neighbourhood and school in White Rock. I know the best service providers and stores. I also know about neighbourhood trends, future development, zoning by-laws, local activities, and family services. And perhaps most importantly to you, as a White Rock REALTOR, I specialize in this area, which means I know the White Rock real estate market!
How Much Is My House Worth?
When it comes to pricing your home you should never choose a Realtor based on how high they suggest you list it. Any REALTOR can list your home above its true market value. However, only a REALTOR with market knowledge and integrity will suggest you list your home at fair market value. Pricing your home correctly and strategically will ensure that it sells reasonably fast. This, in turn, will alleviate stress and prevent you from having to continuously lower your asking price. Doing that leads buyers to think you are either desperate to sell or there is something wrong with your home.
Are Your REALTOR Fees Negotiable?
Many people ask “are real estate commissions negotiable?” Well, for starters, remember the old adage, you get what you pay for. If you are contemplating hiring a part-time, discount realtor be sure to clearly understand what services they exclude. Many discount real estate agents simply do not have the means to effectively market and sell your home.
Also, when it comes to selling what is potentially the largest financial asset you own, do you really want to rely on the cheapest, part-time agent you can find? Or, would you prefer a full-time real estate agent? Someone like myself who is engrossed in the real estate market, buying and selling homes daily, and dedicated to the job you are hiring him for?
Are You a Home Marketing Specialist?
Here’s a little secret; by far, the two most important skill sets your REALTOR should possess is marketing expertise and negotiation expertise. Any REALTOR can list your home above market value. But, only a skilled home marketing specialist can market and sell it for top dollar, fast. And that’s where I come in. Prior to becoming a licensed REALTOR, I was a full-time marketing consultant for 17 years.
I wrote two marketing-related books, one of which became a best-seller. I also trained thousands of small business owners, taught weekend workshops, and lead marketing mastermind groups. I even edited and published a monthly print marketing magazine. So what’s all that mean to you? Well, it means that I know better than most, how to market and sell your home. In fact, I wrote and published the book, How to Sell Your Home Fast for Top Dollar. You can get it for free here.
Are You a Real Estate Negotiation Expert?
When choosing a real estate professional, it’s of utmost importance that they have the ability to expertly negotiate on your behalf. You’ll be pleased to know that I’m both a Licenced REALTOR® and Certified Negotiations Expert (CNE®). Psychology has been a long-time interest of mine. I received my undergraduate degree in psychology and I’ve spent years studying the principles of effective negotiation. What that means to you is when it comes time to negotiate the best terms and prices, you’ll want me on your side of the table!
Are You a Trustworthy REALTOR?
This one kind of goes without saying. Obviously, you want to work with an honest real estate agent that you can trust. It’s always a good idea to check references and read REALTOR reviews. I’m proud to say that Rate-My-Agent.com awarded me the title, “Best White Rock Real Estate Agent” three years straight! You’ll also find many Verified Google Reviews by doing a simple search for “Glen Hopkins – White Rock Realtor”. Alternatively, you can click here to see other reviews and customer service awards.
Hopefully, my online reviews and referrals will help you see that I will take good care of you. While we are on the topic, honestly, I have to say, I’m actually uncomfortable talking so darn much about myself! Therefore, I’ll stop now in hopes that what you’ve read did not come across as egotistical and boastful but rather informative.
I hope that helps you in your search and decision-making process for choosing me as your White Rock REALTOR. If you’d like to learn more about my complete home marketing plan, guaranteed results, and guaranteed service, give me a call. I’d be happy to answer any questions you have. Contact me today and let’s start the conversation.
All the best,
Glen Hopkins
White Rock REALTOR®
White Rock Real Estate Services
Seller Consultation
If you’re selling click here to learn more about the process and how to ensure your property sells quickly and for the highest price possible.
Buyer Consultation
If you’re buying click here to learn how to save money and eliminate risks when buying a new home
Map of White Rock, BC
Neighbourhood Profile
White Rock is a city in British Columbia, Canada, and a member municipality of Metro Vancouver. It borders Semiahmoo Bay to the south and is surrounded on three sides by South Surrey. To the southeast across a footbridge lies the Semiahmoo First Nation, which is within the borders of Surrey
White Rock has a moderate climate, with average daily high temperatures of 23 degrees Celsius in summer and 6 degrees Celsius in winter.
White Rock is named for a distinctive large white boulder on its beach near the promenade, a glacial erratic that migrated south during the last glaciation. The 486-ton granite boulder was kept white by shellfish-eating seabirds whose guano covered the rock, so much so that 19th-century sailors used it as a beacon. However, it is now kept white through monthly applications of white paint by the city parks department and has been a popular graffiti target for over thirty years.
The pier and promenade are popular destinations but do not allow dogs, bicycles or skateboards. A trial run of allowing dogs on the promenade will begin in late 2019. These areas are very busy during the warmer summer months, especially when it comes to line-ups for gelato or fish and chips. Source: Wikipedia
