Choosing the right Real Estate Agent is all about finding someone who will work hard for you, deliver exceptional service, and have a solid network for buying and selling properties. The advances in technology and access to available information have left some wondering if an agent is needed when dealing in Real Estate transactions. Looking at the big picture, an agent’s role is a crucial part of the mix. However, what it looks like is very different from what it was fifty years ago. As with all industries, the process changes and the top reasons to use a professional evolve. For starters, their negotiating skills and local market expertise become more important than ever, helping sellers receive the most money for their property. Having the right individual in your corner is vital when significant investment is at stake. Homeowners that take on the task of selling a home themselves could lose money with one single misstep; the buyer’s agent may talk down the price, or a seller may list at a price that doesn’t reflect fair market value, which can cause a property to sell quickly for less than it was worth, or it may sit too long on the market bringing the value down. Pricing aside, the speed of the sale can often be affected by using an agent, as many will have pre-set marketing campaigns that they can quickly execute, and there is a good chance they already have a network of potential buyers. The right agent could have a buyer in place before the home is officially up for sale! With the modern marketplace, the agent-client relationship is changing, and it is crucial to consider the skills that an agent needs to possess in 2022 to represent each client properly. Real estate agents who will succeed for their clients and brokerages must learn to thrive amidst these changes.