What is it about Milton that makes it one of the best cities in Ontario for families? It’s diverse, scenic and safe, with many fun activities for children to do. The word about Milton is out, and it’s the fastest growing city in Ontario (according to Maclean’s Magazine.) The beautiful scenery and friendly neighbourhoods make it a popular destination for new immigrants to Canada.
No wonder property values here have reached all-time highs!
What does this mean for you as a resident? There are more people looking to buy property here than there are homes for sale. If you’re lucky enough to own a house in Milton, the current market conditions are in your favour if you decide to sell.
What is the Real Estate Market Like in Milton?
Increased immigration and the exodus of people moving away from Toronto have created unique challenges and opportunities for buyers and sellers. Milton’s fast population growth has caused a spike in demand for houses, and average prices have increased all over the country. For sellers, there is an obvious opportunity. List your home now, and you’ll command a higher price than ever. Buyers are in for more of a challenge, but with the many new developments in Milton, there may be opportunities to get into the market at a relatively reasonable price. However, nothing is as simple as it sounds, and the real estate market is moving fast. It’s more important than ever to work with a qualified Realtor® who can help guide you through every step of your transaction.
Here are some guidelines to help you choose the right agent in the Milton area.
Start with Research
Contrary to popular belief, the Internet doesn’t know everything. However, it’s a good place to start with your research. If your Realtor® doesn’t have a website, it doesn’t necessarily mean they’re not qualified. But if they’re not using all of the tools available to market themselves, can you be sure they will go all out to advocate for you and marker your property? After an initial online search, you can begin contacting agents for an in-person or online interview.
Interview Potential Agents
How do you know what questions to ask a potential agent? A good Realtor® will have a strategic system based on their best practices over time. Start with a question or two about their process, and their eyes should light up with enthusiasm as they speak. Ask questions about the market and their experience in the area. They should be happy to address all of your concerns thoroughly and honestly. And while an experienced agent will be a source of knowledge and insight, they will not always have the answers. An ethical agent will admit not knowing, but will get back to you quickly.
Look for Local Expertise
Without local experience, an agent must rely on market reports and general trends. While overall prices are up, things can vary from one neighbourhood to another. New developments can add to the supply and bring prices down, at least temporarily. An agent with local experience can help make sure you’re getting a fair price within the market. An agent who lives locally is even better. They can help you decide what neighbourhoods to look for to suit your interests and lifestyle.
Teamwork is key
When searching for an agent, it’s often best to avoid working with a lone wolf. The market is more complex than ever, and no one person can be an expert on everything. An agent backed by a team has a network of expertise to help with every step of your purchase.
Experience Matters
It’s important to work with an agent who has some experience, but professionalism and a commitment to service matter even more. Ideally, your agent should be part of a strong team with varied experience and expertise. A new agent under the guidance of a qualified Realtor® can bring an unparalleled level of enthusiasm to your transaction.
Look for an Advocate
It’s natural to want to hit it off with someone when you’re going to be working with them on the biggest purchase you’ll ever make. You need someone you feel comfortable with and that you can trust. However, you don’t want to choose an agent just because they are friendly or agreeable. Your agent is there to advocate for your interests, and they may not always tell you what you want to hear. Instead of looking for a friend, look for someone who is professional and courteous, and not afraid to address the issues when they come up.
What do the Reviews Say?
While you should often take online reviews with a grain of salt, they are valuable when you know what to look for. First of all, you want an agent with experience with buyers and sellers because they’ll have a deeper insight into both sides of the transaction. When glancing at reviews, you should see some from both buyers and sellers. And here’s another tip that will help you choose a great agent. Don’t just look at the reviews. Look at the responses. If an agent takes the time to respond to their reviews, you can rest assured they will also respond to your needs.
At Woolcott, we believe our team of local experts is our strongest advantage. You can find out more about our process and our service below: