How to Choose a Real Estate Agent, According to an Expert
A New Jersey real estate professional outlines key factors buyers and sellers should weigh when selecting an agent.
Selecting the right real estate agent can significantly affect the outcome of a home purchase or sale, according to guidance published by HelloNation featuring Glen Rock, N.J.-based expert Nena Colligan.
Colligan highlights four core qualities prospective clients should evaluate: experience, local market knowledge, communication style, and negotiation skill. Each factor plays a distinct role in ensuring a smooth transaction, whether a consumer is entering the market as a buyer or looking to list a property.
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Market knowledge, in particular, can be a decisive differentiator. An agent who understands neighborhood pricing trends, inventory levels, and comparable sales data is better positioned to advise clients on competitive offers or realistic listing prices — information that carries real financial weight in fast-moving markets.
Strong communication habits are equally critical. Colligan's guidance suggests that buyers and sellers should assess how quickly and clearly a prospective agent responds during initial consultations, treating that early interaction as a preview of how the professional will perform under the pressure of an active deal.
Negotiation capability rounds out the checklist. An agent who can advocate effectively for a client's interests — whether pushing back on price, contingencies, or closing terms — can mean the difference between a favorable deal and a costly compromise. Continue reading at Real Estate.
