AriZona Real Estate insider!

When it comes to buying or selling a property in the Phoenix, Scottsdale, or Tempe area, choosing the right real estate agent or brokerage can make all the difference. With so many options available, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But here’s the good news: there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. Whether you’re looking for a full-service experience or a more DIY route, there are plenty of ways to find the perfect professional to guide you through the process.

However, the market has been very challenging for agents over the past few years and looks to remain so in the future. With lower inventory, fewer sales, and too many agents competing for a shrinking pool of clients, many agents may decide to leave the industry. As a result, the agent you worked with in the past might not be available to help you buy or sell now.

Selling a property in the Valley of the Sun can be a complex process, especially if you’re not familiar with the local real estate market or if you’re managing the sale from out of town. Whether you’re relocating, dealing with a property you inherited, or simply don’t have local connections, finding the right realtor or brokerage in the Phoenix, Scottsdale, or Tempe area can be challenging.

Picture this: You own a condo in Scottsdale or a commercial property in Phoenix, but you’re currently living out of state or don’t know anyone in the area who can recommend a reliable agent. You might be feeling overwhelmed, unsure of where to start, or worried about choosing an agent who won’t adequately represent your interests. With so many options available, from referral companies to well-known platforms and individual agents, it’s easy to feel lost.

In this blog, we’ll guide you through the process of finding the right realtor or brokerage in Phoenix, Scottsdale, or Tempe. Whether you’re looking for full-service support or prefer a more budget-friendly approach, we’ll break down various ways to evaluate and choose the right professional for your needs. From understanding the benefits of referral platforms and major real estate companies to exploring individual agents and specialized services, we’ll help you navigate your options and make an informed decision.

1. Referral Companies: Trust the Experience of Others

Referral companies like Zillow, UpNest (now Realtor.com), and FastExpert.com have become popular platforms for finding qualified agents. These companies typically vet agents based on performance, client reviews, and other factors, then connect you with top-performing agents who fit your needs.

• Zillow allows you to connect with agents, browse listings, and even receive an offer on your home. However, while Zillow’s agents may have a lot of reviews, the ones they connect you with often pay to be listed as top agents. It’s a “pay to play” system, which doesn’t always guarantee the best service.
• UpNest offers a unique competition platform where agents submit their proposals, including fees and a breakdown of their services. This allows you to compare different agents and choose the one that offers the best value.
• FastExpert has expanded its offerings to include a commercial service, where they connect clients with some of the top commercial agents in the industry. This makes them a strong choice if you’re dealing with commercial properties.

Advantages:

• Pre-vetted Agents: You’ll be connected with agents who have proven track records.
• Comparison Options: Many platforms allow you to compare multiple agents and their commission rates.
• Specialized Services: Platforms like FastExpert offer connections to top commercial agents.

Things to Consider:

• Limited Control: You may not have as much say in selecting your agent as you would if you were searching independently.
• Be Wary of Reviews: Many reviews can be fake. Despite realtors being one of the most disliked professions, it’s not uncommon to see them with hundreds of 5-star reviews.

2. Go Directly to Well-Known Companies: The Big Players

Berkshire Hathaway, The Agency (luxury), and other major players like JLL (Jones Lang LaSalle) and Cushman & Wakefield have built their reputations on providing reliable, well-rounded services in the real estate market. When you work with these big-name companies, you’re tapping into their extensive resources, established networks, and brand recognition. These companies often cater to high-end markets and offer a range of services that can make the buying or selling process smoother.

Advantages:

• Brand Trust: These companies have established reputations and extensive resources.
• Comprehensive Services: They offer a full spectrum of services, from property valuation to marketing and closing the deal.
• Luxury and Commercial Focus: Companies like The Agency specialize in high-end, luxury properties, while JLL and Cushman & Wakefield focus on commercial real estate, providing specialized services for commercial transactions.

Things to Consider:

• Agent Referral: If you’re calling their office, they will probably refer you to their top agent or someone who is doing floor time. You may not know who you’ll be referred to, but many find comfort in the brand’s backing.
• Less Personalized Service: With larger companies, you might feel like just another client in a big system.
• Brand Over Agent: While the brand can be appealing, it’s important to ensure the individual agent is the right fit for your needs.

3. Hire an Individual Agent: Personal Attention and Local Expertise

Sometimes, the best choice is an individual agent—someone who comes highly recommended by friends or family or who has a strong presence in your local market. A well-reviewed agent or one who has successfully sold properties in your area may offer the personalized service and local knowledge that larger companies can’t match.

Advantages:

• Personalized Service: A dedicated agent can offer more tailored advice and attention.
• Local Expertise: An agent who knows the local market can provide valuable insights.

Things to Consider:

• Varied Quality: Not all agents are created equal, so it’s important to do your research and read reviews. Again, be cautious with reviews—while an agent may have hundreds of 5-star ratings, remember that this doesn’t always tell the whole story.
• Availability of the Main Agent: Depending on how busy the agent is or if they are the team leader, you might not get them personally. They might attend the initial appointment based on the property and price point, but then you could be passed down to showing agents, buyer’s agents, transaction coordinators, assistants, or rookie agents. It’s a good idea to ask about the process for getting a hold of the main agent if needed.

4. Explore A La Carte, Discount, or Flat-Fee Options: Flexibility and Savings

For those who want more control over the process or to save on commission fees, a la carte, discount, or flat-fee services might be the way to go. These options allow you to pick and choose the services you need, whether it’s professional photography, listing your home on the MLS, or handling negotiations. Flat-fee services like FSBO (For Sale by Owner) give you the tools to sell your home yourself while still providing some professional support.

Advantages:

• Cost Savings: Lower commission rates or fixed fees can save you money.
• Flexibility: You can choose only the services you need.

Things to Consider:

• More Responsibility: You may have to handle more of the process yourself, which can be time-consuming and stressful.

5. Niche Blogs and Websites: Targeted Marketing for Specific Needs

Websites and blogs like this one AZREinsider you are reading that cater to specific markets or property types, like PhxCondosForSale, OpenDoor, and OfferPad, offer targeted solutions that can be ideal for certain buyers or sellers.

• PhxCondosForSale.com specializes in condos, lofts, penthouses, and townhomes in the Phoenix area. They offer selling commission packages ranging from 1.75% to 2.5%, with the 1.75% package including MLS listing, paperwork & negotiation management, professional photography, pricing analysis & data, and basic marketing. This package alone covers all the essentials needed to sell a condo. If the price is right, it will sell. Doing the math, this is the best option for condos that want everything necessary to sell at a discount while still receiving full-service support.
• OpenDoor and OfferPad are iBuyers, offering to buy your home directly with benefits like no commission fees, the flexibility to sell anytime, and even the option to stay in your home as long as you need. However, keep in mind that their goal is to secure a deal on the property, and as businesses, they aim to maximize their profit, which might affect the price they offer.

Advantages:

• Specialized Focus: These platforms understand the nuances of specific markets or property types.
• Targeted Audience: Your property may receive more exposure to the right buyers.
• Convenience: iBuyers like OpenDoor and OfferPad provide a hassle-free selling process.

Things to Consider:

• Limited Scope: These platforms may not be as useful if you’re looking outside their niche.
• Profit-Driven: iBuyers may offer less favorable terms since their goal is to maximize profit.
• Be Skeptical of Reviews: As always, don’t believe everything you read. Many reviews on these platforms can be misleading or overly positive.

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The Bottom Line: You Have Options

With so many options at your disposal, finding the right real estate professional to help you buy or sell your home, condo, penthouse, land, or commercial property doesn’t have to be daunting. Whether you prefer the security of a large, well-known company, the personal touch of an individual agent, or the cost savings of a flat-fee service, there’s something out there for everyone.

Here’s a blueprint to help guide your decision-making:

• Don’t Want to Do a Lot of Searching on Your Own? Visit referral companies like UpNest and FastExpert and fill out their selling form. They can connect you with pre-vetted agents who match your needs.
• Have a Condo in the Phoenix Metro Area? The 1.75% basic package from PhxCondosForSale is a solid option. This package includes all the essentials you need to sell your condo at a discount while still receiving full-service support.
• Commercial Property Owner? FastExpert is a good starting point. They offer connections to top commercial agents. However, if you don’t feel like it’s a good fit, don’t hesitate to explore other options.
• See a Local Agent Dominating Your Area? If you notice an agent consistently selling many properties in your neighborhood, consider reaching out to them. Just make sure they align with your needs and preferences—after all, you should feel comfortable with your choice, and it’s perfectly okay to pass on someone who doesn’t fit your criteria.

No matter what direction you go, remember that you’re not hiring anyone until you sign a listing agreement or a buyer broker showing agreement. You have the freedom to interview as many or as few agents as you like. Everything is negotiable—from commissions to terms—and a good agent knows they owe you a fiduciary duty, meaning they must do things right, even if you negotiate a discount.

However, don’t put too much stock in online reviews or the number of properties an agent claims to have sold—many agents work as part of a team or use their brokerage’s sales numbers. The best way to find the right fit? Interview agents face-to-face and see if they match what you’re looking for.

Remember, at the end of the day, the right choice is the one that works best for you and your specific needs. Happy house hunting or site selection (depending on your residential or commercial preference)!