The real estate agent you work with can make all the difference when it comes to finding a home, closing in a timely manner and getting the best possible deal. You’ll work closely with this person throughout a financially significant and stressful time in your life, so it’s essential that you take the necessary steps to ensure you’re choosing the right one.
The most obvious way to find a qualified and trustworthy real estate agent is to get a recommendation from someone you know. However, if that’s not an option, you can use online resources to help you find agents with the skills and experience to meet your needs. The National Association of Realtors’ “Find a Realtor” feature is one example, and you can also look up agents in your area by name or brokerage firm affiliation. Also read https://www.joehomebuyertriadgroup.com/sell-my-house-fast-woodlawn-nc/
As you’re interviewing agents, be sure to ask about their track record and the type of properties they specialize in. Ask about how many homes they’ve sold in the past year and how long they’ve been in the business. Also, be sure to inquire about any professional awards they’ve received, as these can indicate their level of expertise.
While it may be tempting to hire a friend or family member who is a realtor, this is often a bad idea. If this person makes a mistake, it could cost both of you tens of thousands of dollars. Plus, it’s important that you work with someone with whom you have a good rapport.
When selling a home, you want to make sure you’re working with a full-time agent who has the time and knowledge to effectively market your property. Ask prospective agents about the types of marketing they plan to implement, and see if you can find examples of their work in your neighborhood or price range.
Lastly, when looking at an agent’s online presence, pay attention to their social media accounts and consumer ratings. You should also check your state’s real estate regulator to see if they have any disciplinary history.
If you’re buying a home, ask potential agents for references and contact information so you can speak to previous clients about their experience. This can give you an idea of how well they communicate and negotiate, and it can also provide insight into how much they understand the local housing market.
During the interview process, you should also pay close attention to how prospective agents speak about their clients and other brokers. If they speak negatively about others, it’s a red flag that they won’t treat you with respect and will likely have a difficult time working with other people in the industry. You’ll want to choose an agent who is open and honest with you and has your best interests in mind. In today’s challenging housing market, that can mean the difference between a quick and successful sale and a drawn-out, frustrating transaction. The bottom line is that you should never settle.