4 Things to Look For in a Real Estate Agent

Sometimes it feels like there are a million real estate agents out there. The question is, what should you be looking for to find the right one to help you buy or sell a house? Up here in the High Country there are specifics things that I think make agents stand out from others. Topography, elevation, weather, size, demographic, tourism, and location make the High Country a very unique place to be. All of these factors require agents to have special understanding of the area.

Here are 4 things you need to look for in a real estate agent.

#1: Solid References and Recommendations

I believe recommendations are the best way to find an agent. Friends can share their experiences and let you know who to use or worse, who not too. If you are not connected with anyone to ask directly then be sure to check out reviews online. If you read through others’ testimonies about their experiences with agents and agencies you can get a feel of the quality of work being done by the firm and the agents in it.

#2: They Know Trusted Service Providers

You want an agent who has connections and relationships with service providers. Some agents are new to the business but have lived in the area for a long time. They may already know anyone and everyone and will have tons of resources to get the job done quickly and by the best people. We have a list of local service providers our office recommends that is really beneficial for people new to the High Country.

#3: They Work Well with Others

You want an agent who is personable, has the ability to work well with you but also with other agents. We are a small, local area and agents that know how to work well with their peers are able to achieve the best quality deals for their clients. If you are moving to the area, it is crucial to find an agent willing to welcome you to the community and find the best fit for your needs.

#4: They Know the Area and All Things Real Estate

Knowledge about unique things that are specific to the High Country is a great plus in a real estate agent. In the High Country of North Carolina, your realtor should know a thing or two about being cut out for rural living.

Wells, septic systems, gravel roads, spring fed homes, land purchases and financing available will all be things you want your agent to know about in this area.

As mentioned before, the High Country is a unique place to live. It’s a college town in addition to a vacation destinationIf you’re in the market for a short or long-term vacation rental, working with an agent who has a Resort and Second Property designation can help you manage all your wants and needs. If you’re interested in potential investment properties near Boone, make sure to find an agent who knows handled these types of transactions before.

We believe 828 Real Estate has top notch agents and do not take the business of finding homes for people lightly. This area is all about word of mouth and our business runs on the client being extremely satisfied.

Let us know if we can help you find your next adventure! Submit a request to Perfect Home Finder to have listings you’ll love sent straight to your inbox, request a CMA if you’re a seller, or sign up for our bi-weekly newsletter to stay up to date on all things real estate in the High Country of North Carolina.

About the Author
I am a native of Knoxville, Tennessee, but I have been in North Carolina since1997 when I moved to Boone to attend Appalachian State University. I earned my degree in Theatre Education and Communications. While at ASU I met my husband, Matt Long, a Boone native and general contractor, and gained a heart for these mountains and my beloved ASU Mountaineers. After graduation, I spent 5 years teaching in Charlotte before being given the opportunity to move back to the High Country. In 2007 I earned my NC Real Estate License and began in full-time brokerage. In 2010 I helped to open a franchise brokerage in the High Country. I gained impactful knowledge and built important relationships during my 8 years there, but began to feel the calling to get back to my roots.

In June of 2018, my dream became a reality when I opened 828 Real Estate. We are a boutique brokerage that is locally focused, community-minded and client-driven. I feel so fortunate to be in a career that I love, have opportunities to serve wonderful clients, and get to work with the best team here at 828 Real Estate.

I am a member of The High Country Association of Realtors, the North Carolina Association of Realtors, the National Association of Realtors. I am a member the Boone Chamber of Commerce and I am on the board for the Downtown Boone Development Association. I have also completed the Realtor  e-Pro certification that specifically focuses on the technology tools needed in the purchase or sale of a property. Additionally, I have earned my CLHMS Designation. (Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist) and a qualified LuxuryHomes.com Affiliate. Over the years I have been awarded various Top Producer Awards. I am honored each year to be invited to the Top 50 Brokers in the High Country celebration.

My husband and I reside in downtown Boone and have 2 beautiful children, Sadie Rose and Levi. We attend Alliance Bible Fellowship and stay connected by serving the community and supporting local non-profits like Western Youth Network, The Appalachian Theatre and Valle Crucis Community Park. We love to spend time outside hiking, playing on the river, running with their dog, Emmie Lou, hitting the slopes and making the most of our time in this amazing place we get to call home!