What To Look For In A Real Estate Agent
Posted by 
Wendy Ryan on Monday, July 20, 2009
I understand the process of either selling or purchasing a home can be quite daunting. This will be one of the most significant events that will be made throughout your life so having the right person guiding you through it is paramount. So, I have compiled a few tips to consider when you are at the point when a real estate agent may come into play.
- Does the agent work part-time or full-time? Right off the bat, it’s evident that you want someone working as hard as possible for you and not being distracted by another career. If an agent is telling you that they are only reachable at night or on the weekends, move along. To properly serve your needs, the agent needs to have their ear to the ground at ALL TIMES, not just during the times that it is convenient for them. There will be opportunities that you could miss if they are unable to focus on real estate 100% of the time.
- Open communication is critical. This person will be helping you negotiate with sale or purchase your most valuable asset and you want someone who you feel comfortable talking to and can be open with. You want to make sure you can have an open dialogue at all times and not be intimidated or unsettled. But, keep in mind that an agent may tell you things that you don’t want to hear about your home. This shows honesty and is extremely important. You want an agent who is willing to be honest with you no matter what.
- Make sure the agent is able to assist you in all aspects of the deal not just showing you listings and holding open houses. They should help in arranging the inspections, finding you the right mortgage broker, working with a stager etc. You are paying for their time so make sure to put them to work!
- If you are selling a home, ask for a detailed marketing plan. Gone are the days when placing an ad in the Sunday paper is adequate in selling a house. There are several aspects to successfully marketing a home so make sure your agent has a multi-tiered approach.
- Choose an agent who knows your area. Just because an agent sells lots of houses across town doesn’t mean that they’ll be successful selling your house! You want an agent who has an understanding of your specific location.
