Andrew Robinson

Choosing the right real estate agent is a crucial step in the home-buying process. Here are some tips to help you find the best agent for your needs: Ask for Recommendations: Start by asking friends, family, and colleagues for recommendations. They may have had positive experiences with agents in the past. Research Online: Use online platforms like real estate websites, forums, and social media to find agents in your target area. Look for agents with positive reviews and high ratings. Interview Multiple Agents: Don't settle for the first agent you come across. Talk to at least three different agents to get a sense of their experience, communication style, and market knowledge. Check Their Credentials and Experience: Ensure the agent is licensed and in good standing. Look for an agent with a track record of successful transactions, especially in the area you're interested in. Local Market Expertise: Choose an agent who is familiar with the neighborhoods you're interested in. They should have a good understanding of local property values, market trends, and amenities. Communication Skills: Effective communication is essential. The agent should be responsive, clear, and able to adapt their communication style to meet your preferences. Negotiation Skills: A good agent should be an excellent negotiator. They should work to get you the best deal possible, whether you're buying or selling. Compatibility: Trust your instincts. You should feel comfortable and have good rapport with your agent. They should listen to your needs and be willing to work with your preferences. References: Ask for references from previous clients. Speaking to past clients can give you valuable insights into the agent's performance and professionalism. Marketing Plan (for Sellers): If you're selling a home, ask the agent about their marketing strategy. They should have a clear plan for promoting your property. Fees and Contracts: Understand the agent's fee structure and contract terms. Make sure you're comfortable with the terms before committing. Stay Informed: A good agent should educate you about the buying process, provide market insights, and offer advice. They should empower you to make informed decisions. Avoid Dual Agency: Be cautious about agents who represent both the buyer and the seller in a transaction (dual agency). This can present a conflict of interest. Be Wary of Pressure Tactics: Avoid agents who pressure you into making quick decisions or trying to push you towards properties that don't meet your criteria. Remember, finding the right agent can significantly impact your home-buying experience. Take your time, do your research, and choose an agent who aligns with your goals and preferences.

Selling a home involves various steps and considerations. Here's some advice for a seller: Choose the Right Real Estate Agent: Select an experienced, local agent who has a proven track record of successful sales in your area. They should have a good understanding of the market and be able to provide valuable advice. Set the Right Asking Price: Your agent will help you determine an appropriate listing price based on market conditions, comparable sales, and the unique features of your home. Avoid overpricing, as it can deter potential buyers. Prepare Your Home for Sale: Clean, declutter, and depersonalize your home to make it more appealing to potential buyers. Consider minor repairs and updates that can enhance its overall appearance. Consider Professional Staging: Professional staging can help showcase your home's potential and allow buyers to envision themselves living there. It can lead to faster and potentially higher offers. Market Your Property Effectively: Your agent should have a comprehensive marketing plan that includes professional photos, virtual tours, online listings, and potentially even targeted advertising. Be Flexible with Showings: Make your home as accessible as possible to potential buyers. Flexibility in scheduling showings can increase your chances of finding the right buyer sooner. Disclose All Relevant Information: Be transparent about any known issues or defects with the property. Honesty builds trust with potential buyers and can prevent legal issues later on. Consider Pre-inspections: Getting a pre-inspection can identify any potential problems in advance. This allows you to address them before listing or adjust your asking price accordingly. Negotiate Wisely: Your agent should be a skilled negotiator who can advocate for your interests while also being willing to find common ground with potential buyers. Be Prepared for Closing Costs: Understand the various costs associated with selling a home, including real estate agent commissions, closing fees, and potential repairs requested by the buyer. Have a Backup Plan: Be prepared for unexpected situations. It's possible that a sale may fall through, so have a plan in place in case this happens. Review Offers Carefully: Consider all aspects of an offer, not just the sale price. Look at contingencies, financing terms, and any special requests from the buyer. Stay Informed and Involved: Stay in the loop about the progress of the sale. Regular communication with your agent can help you make informed decisions throughout the process. Be Patient: The selling process can take time, and the right buyer may not come along immediately. Trust your agent's advice and be patient. Remember, every real estate transaction is unique, so adapt these tips to fit your specific situation. Having a knowledgeable agent by your side can make a significant difference in the selling process.

Over the last 9 years, I have worked with a diverse group of clients ranging from professional hockey players, executives relocating for work, and small business owners. I tend to gravitate toward listings that are nonconforming and present a challenge to market.

I used to own a retail company with 14 locations and 180 employees and we owned our own advertising company. I spent way too much time traveling, I transitioned into real estate in 2014 so I could take advantage of my marketing background and cut down on my time spent away from my family

Early in my business career, I specialized in Sales management and marketing. I learned to build relationships and build a reliable supply chain to grow our business Over a period of eight years I grew a new division in the company from (Zero) sales to over $ 500 million. I later left that company to start my own retail chain and developed out own inhouse advertising agency. I would say relationship building and marketing are my strong suit.