Useful Tips for Selecting the Right Real Estate Agent
Buying or selling a house is a big deal, therefore, you need to hire the services of a professional agent to guide you through the process. The following are a few tips to assist you to select the right agent.
Look for a local real estate agent who has handled transaction of properties in your area. You will have a greater advantage when you find an agent who is actively involved in your neighborhood and is up-to-date with the market trends and price range. Get referrals from your neighbors or family members who used the services of a realtor in the recent times.
Next, run a background search on the agent or the company that you are considering to help you make the right decision. You want to ensure that they are highly regarded in the community and they will focus on your priorities. Ask the agent to give you a list of homes that they have sold or listed lately so that you can contact past clients and find out if they are happy with their services.
Additionally, before you choose to work with an agent, find out how long they have been selling real estate. An agent who has over 5 years of expertise will perform their job with professionalism and close the deal faster. Make sure that the agent is familiar with all the know-how of selling or buying houses similar to yours so that you will be assured of quality services.
Another crucial tip is to visit the agent’s website and take a look at their current listings. You want to ensure that when a potential buyer searches for your property in the website, they will be able to find it with all the details clearly stated.
Find out if the prospective agent has been properly licensed and affiliated. Most states have a regulatory body that can you verify the agent’s license. Similarly, you could use other bodies like Better Business Bureau to find out if there is any complaint pending against them.
Just like any other profession, your real estate agent should have the right credentials. Certified and highly trained professionals will represent you well during the transaction and ensure that the deal is successful. Similarly, you may want to pick a realtor who has won many awards due to their good services.
When you have narrowed your list of potential agents, be sure to make an appointment and ask them questions to be sure you are making the right decision. Once you have made an appointment prepare a list of questions to ask them in order to determine if they are capable of meeting your actual needs. Trust your instincts and if you do not feel confident working with them, go to the next realtor. Shop around to get prices of different agents so that you can make your final decision.