According to research by the National Association of Realtors, homebuyers surveyed said they value honesty and trustworthiness above all the other traits a real estate agent can bring to the table. One of the reasons why Homesale Realty agents are successful is their ability to build that relationship of trust.

First-time homebuyers, in particular, always look for a real estate pro they can rely on. Buying your first home is exciting, but it can also be nerve-wracking. There are all kinds of questions that need to be sorted out. Financing may be the biggest one on most people's minds, but legal and tax issues lurk around the corner. Dealing with a seller and getting a home inspection can also be hectic.

First-time buyers don't always know what they don't know – and that's stressful! With that in mind, it's crucial to go the extra mile when you work with them. Let's look at five of the top ways to help first-time buyers be successful.

1. Answer Lots of Questions
   The best way to help anyone feel better about the unknown is to answer their questions. What they ask will tell you about their priorities and concerns. They might not remember every detail later, so be sure you know what blog and video content you have on your website that they can use for reference. Some clients prefer to get details by email or may even ask to record meetings for later reference.
   
   
2. Map Out the Challenging Parts
   All in all, financing and closing are the two parts of the homebuying process that confuse people the most. Help your clients understand "how much house" they can afford by encouraging them to build a budget and helping them find lenders to compare. For closing, the biggest sticking points are closing costs and the down payment: Practice explaining these aspects until you're 100% confident.
   
   
3. Anticipate Their Needs
   There are lots of ways that a purchase can go south, even when the market strongly favors buyers. Experiences gives you a bird's-eye view, so anticipate issues in advance and let your client know what's up ahead. For example, your client might be on a tight timeline to get a home inspection. Knowing why an inspection is crucial, what to look out for, and what local inspectors are available can help.
   
   
4. Go to Bat for Them
   In the end, your clients have to make their own decisions – but you're there to help them make the most informed choices they can. One area where most clients lack confidence is negotiations. When there are multiple bidders, helping them structure an offer and follow-through can give them the boost they need. Be sure you understand all the standard contingencies that can go into a contract.
   
   
5. Follow Up After Closing
   Closing day is an important milestone, but the relationship doesn't end there. Your new homeowners still have a lot to learn about, well, actually owning a home. Some real estate agents love to send clients a pizza on the day they move in. Others send a card. Whatever the case, check in after a week, three months, at the holiday season, and on the one-year anniversary. You never know when you could be of assistance!

As few as 17% of homebuyers remember their real estate agent after one year. Taking these steps helps you lay the foundation of a relationship that stays relevant and can last a lifetime – potentially resulting in referral business as clients are happy to say "That's MY agent!"

Contact BHHS Homesale Realty to learn more and bring your real estate career to the next level.