Maui Now File Photo.

By Alexandra Mitchell

Choosing a Realtor in Hawaiʻi is like dating. In fact, it’s the perfect metaphor. Just think about it…

There are so many fish in the sea in the Hawaiʻi real estate market, that you can easily get “hooked up” with a Realtor in numerous ways–through a friend, someone’s sister, cousin or ex-husband.

Maybe you were lucky enough to find a Realtor on the web while searching for your perfect match. While scanning  Realtor photos, you may even have developed an online celebrity crush on the Brad Pitt of Hawaiʻi Realtors or a rising star Channing Tatum Realtor, who will do anything to represent your property right–signed, sealed and delivered.

In the past, my involvement with Realtors has been on a business-to-business level. Until recently, I have never been on the seller’s side of the playing field. But for the past few months, I have been co-managing the sale of a friend’s property and have been in a quasi-arranged “marriage” with the wrong Realtor. We’re going through a break-up.  But I am relieved to know that a “better fit” is just around the corner.

I’ve realized through this relationship that regardless of real estate experience, there is a right and wrong type of Realtor for each specific property, seller and buyer. Like dating, you must be honest with yourself, and upfront with your Realtor about all your needs. You must make the right choice from the get-go.

Whether you are dating the wrong Realtor, or just starting your search for one, I suggest that you sit down and make a list of what exactly you need from your Hawaiʻi Realtor. Do you want a Realtor with amazing attention to detail, a great track record and awesome past client relations? I do! One who has incredible follow up, and a positive outlook that will be backed up with delivery? Yes, please!

Note to Sellers:

I strongly suggest that you interview more than one Realtor. How do you do this? Well, first do your research. Then, go visit him or her at an open house for another property. Consider their congeniality with perspective buyers. See how they communicate with buyers and agents. Are they professional? Are they creating an environment that is conducive for a successful sale? You want to choose a Realtor who will get the job done–one who befriends their clients and all perspective parties. The best Realtors will not only represent you right, but they will also add value to your property.

Don’t just imagine happily running off into the sunset with your Hawaiʻi Realtor, start by making the right choice.

Have you ever dated the wrong Realtor? What happened? Or, maybe you are in the perfect real estate relationship? Mahalo for reading, and let us know your thoughts in the comments section below…