22 Mar How to Choose a REALTOR®

Posted at 21:54h in Buyer's Guide by

Choosing a REALTOR® … and choosing well… means the difference between a successful transaction and disappointment.

A REALTOR® brings different talents into play with buyers or with sellers, but a few common qualities differentiate a dedicated professional REALTOR® from a poor one.

Keep the following in mind the next time you’re choosing a person to represent you in one of the largest financial transactions of your life, and keep looking if the answers are “wrong.”

• First impressions count: Is he/she dressed appropriately? YOU may be able to overlook your agent looking like they should either be out washing the car or attending a gala evening event… but remember that other people may not, and this person will be representing you.

• Does he/she have time for you? Is the agent willing to listen to your needs and concerns before responding? Is she willing to discuss and explain and answer questions?

• Is this agent available to answer questions and show property evenings and week-ends… or only during business hours?

• Is this agent familiar with the territory? Is she familiar with other homes (or land) in the area? Can he tell you selling prices and how those other properties compare to the one you want to buy… or sell? Does she know what’s going on nearby… such as new housing developments, shopping centers, proximity to schools, etc.?

• If you’re a buyer, will the agent accompany you or simply send you out with a map and a wave… telling you to come back if you see something interesting?

• If you’re a seller, will the agent have time to view your property within the next few days? Will he prepare a comprehensive market analysis so you can see how it fits with the competition?

• Will the agent point out things you can and should do to prepare your home for market?

• How many ways will this agent promote your home or land? If MLS® System is the only advertising then your results will be less spectacular.

• Will this agent point out areas of concern: Inspections and permits that you as a seller should provide to buyers… and that you as a buyer should ask for? And will he tell you WHY they are important?

• What do your instincts say? Are you comfortable with this person? Can you talk things over and not feel intimidated? Do you sense that she cares more about doing a job for you… or getting a paycheck? Bottom line: is this someone you could like – someone you will enjoy communicating with over the next few weeks?

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