We Believe

The grass is not always greener on the other side – it’s just a different shade of green – with different characteristics, strengths and weaknesses. When you are looking for representation –it’s the details that will take you down the path.

A trusted real estate agent provides experienced counsel, guidance and unparalleled local expertise. Although they don’t have a law degree – their detailed knowledge of contracts can provide you with protection as you move forward in a real estate transaction. 

For first-time home buyers, the first step can be one of the most intimidating.  For the seasoned buyer or seller – you may think you know it all. Things change – all the time – a REALTOR® is required to take Continued Education Courses and is provided with counsel from their industry, lawyers and most importantly, their Broker.

The professionals at Coldwell Banker Horizon Realty have provided the following tips to identifying the right real estate professional: 

Ask around: 

 Friends and family can be the first source of helpful information.  Referrals are the leading source of finding an agent.  If you’re new to the area or don’t have references, you should feel free to contact the manager of the local Coldwell Banker® office - that’s me.  Once you explain your situation and needs, I will be able to suggest a few names of Agents that would meet the qualities you feel you could relate to.

Questions for potential candidates:
As you meet potential agents, you should feel empowered to determine if the agent’s personality and skills are a good match.  Some of the key questions that might help you make a decision include:

• What is your experience in Kelowna or West Kelowna?
• What is the average price point of homes that you help people buy and sell?
• Could I speak with some of your past or current clients for a reference?
• Tell me about the brokerage firm you work with.  How long has it been around?
• What tools do you employ to help get the job done?

Examine their on-line presence:  

Many real estate professionals are especially savvy when it comes to marketing themselves (or their listings) on-line.  They list their areas of speciality.   If the person is highly-visible and socially active on-line, it is also a good indicator that he or she is connected to the right tools and technology that come in handy for home buyers or sellers. Don’t be afraid to inquire about their experience using video when it comes to real estate.  Cutting edge agents can point you toward video tours, community videos and more to give you a real life sense of the areas you are considering.  Those same tools that might help the Buyer buy – will help the Seller sell – as they will attract the rights buyers to your property.  

Ultimate Service® is a program available to all Coldwell Banker Agents. It provides the consumer a true measurement of service to be provided to them, an opportunity to let us know how we did and the ability to terminate our relationship if the REALTOR® doesn't follow through with the service commitments promised.  For 17 years we have had a 98% Customer Satisfaction approval rating.  Our past clients are telling you, you've made the right decision if you choose a Coldwell Banker Agent.

Go with your gut:
After consulting with friends and family, reading some testimonials, doing research and looking on-line, your instincts are often right on.  You will have a good “gut” feeling as to whether a person will be a good fit for the house-hunting /selling process.  It’s a home – not a house – “We Believe” in family life, community living, neighbours and neighbourhoods, “We Believe your home is your castle”   Finding the right one becomes easy when you find the right REALTOR®.

Coldwell Banker 

When the going gets "Tough"...just call me.

Susan Tough