Choosing The Right Real Estate Agent Can Be A Challenge
The best practicing real estate agent is not always the one that has the most sales on their record or the most years on the job. The best agent is usually the person who carefully listens to you, has a friendly disposition , and has the tools and acumen to handle your unique situation.
Every person who desires to buy a home is different . Some have issues with their credit . Some are out of state buyers . Some individuals may need help in selling their current home in addition to purchasing a new one. It is a known fact that as buyers have different needs, real estate agents need to also exhibit different skills and specialties.
A few valuable tips on finding the agent who's right for you:
Be sure to ask friends and family for agent references .Just remember that nobody knows you as well as your friends and immediate family . So they're usually situated in the best position to recommend an agent who is well-equipped to solve your needs. You can also pretty much trust a referral from friends or family member more than one that comes from a complete stranger.
Be sure to speak with multiple agents.
It is clearly a known fact that 84% of home buyers have chosen the first real estate agent they contact. This usually means one of two things. Either most home buyers are choosing wisely the first time, or they're just quickly being committed without shopping around. It’s probably a combination of both.
Also remember not to exhaust yourself interviewing agent after agent, but be sure to speak with two or three to see who you're most comfortable with (which leads to the very next point).
3 You must put emphasis on the vibe factor.
Professional expertise is undoubtedly an important criterion when selecting a real estate agent. But having interpersonal skills is equally important. After all, you will probably be working with this individual approximately for at least 2 to 12 months, so it helps to build a healthy relationship with them. We all have different personalities , and that's the way it should be. But when attempting to work with someone on a professional level , it is a huge benefit if their personality "meshes" well with your own.
4 Be sure to inquire about their search techniques
When making a decision with any real estate agent, be sure to inquire on how they search for homes. Some agents have their own favorite preferred listings. But you want to make certain that everything is geared to your interests , not what is best for the agent. You're are paying them, so it would be to your advantage to make certain the agent is willing to search high and low to find the best home for you. That includes making use of the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) , their own personal network , social media & other high tech resources.
5 Read all paperwork very carefully.
It's very crucial that you carefully examine all documentation during the home buying process, and this includes your agent agreement. At some point during the ongoing process , the agent will probably request you to sign an agent agreement. Generally, it just means that if the agent shows you a particular property, your potential purchase of the property should be granted to that agent. In most scenarios it's a simple, standard document just make sure to read it carefully and do not hesitate to ask questions. Always seek the advice of a qualified real estate attorney during this contractual process
Happy House Hunting !!