When you’re buying or selling a home, the real estate agent you choose can have a major impact on your experience. You’ll work closely with your agent and will be sharing personal financial information, so you want to find someone who is trustworthy, knowledgeable, and a good fit for your personality.
Word-of-mouth referrals are the most common way people find their agents, and they can be a great place to start your search. Ask friends, family members, and colleagues who have recently bought or sold homes for recommendations. You can also drive around neighborhoods and look for “for sale” signs to see which agents are marketing properties in the area. Attending open houses is another way to meet local agents. Read more https://www.joehomebuyertriadgroup.com/
Once you’ve narrowed your options, it’s time to interview potential agents. Prepare questions ahead of time so you can gauge their expertise and whether they’re a good match for your needs. For example, you’ll want to ask an agent how long they’ve been in the business and whether they’ve closed any deals similar to yours. Be wary of new agents who may not have a track record to back up their claims, as they can be less experienced and more likely to make mistakes that could cost you money.
You’ll also want to find out whether your agent is a member of the National Association of Realtors (NAR). The association’s website provides a search feature that allows you to check an agent’s membership status and review consumer ratings. You can also look for NAR-affiliated agents on local listings websites, such as StreetEasy, which lets you filter by NAR-affiliated agents.
When it comes to buyer’s agents, you’ll want to find out if they represent buyers exclusively or work with both buyers and sellers. If they only represent buyers, they’ll be unable to negotiate on your behalf when it comes to price, terms, or other aspects of a deal. You’ll also want to find out if they’re familiar with your neighborhood, as this can help them determine the best listing price for your home or recommend suitable homes for you to view.
During your interviews, take notes so you can compare candidates later on. Pay special attention to how quickly and thoroughly your agent answers your questions. If they’re unresponsive or give you the runaround, it might be time to keep searching. You’ll need an agent who can respond quickly, especially if you’re in a hurry to close on a home.
You’ll also want to find out a bit about the agents’ personalities and ways of doing business. Do they tend to be more aggressive or laid-back? Are they more focused on getting the transaction completed or on building their brand? While an agent’s style can vary, you’ll want to find one who meshes well with your own. By taking the time to choose the right agent, you can rest assured that your real estate experience will be a positive one.