How to Choose the Right Realtor to Represent You

Searching for the perfect real estate agent can be a daunting task if you don’t know what to look for. Luckily, there are ways you can filter through the clutter. If you haven’t found a Realtor through your family and friends suggestions try using a few of these tips to help find the right one for you.

Use a realtor with a capital “R”

There are a ton of licensed real estate agents and a large amount of them are registered with the National Association of REALTORS (NAR). Only NAR members are allowed to use the term REALTOR. When you’re in the hunt, try to find an agent with the capitalized credentials. You can easily find someone by using realtor.com®. Make sure to utilize more than one search directory. Browsing multiple sites and reading reviews will help you choose the right Realtor.

Meet agents in their natural environment

Don’t try to meet an agent by calling them while they’re at the office. Go to an open house and talk with the agent. You can tell so much more about a person if you talk to them face-to-face. If they seem interested in answering your questions and helping you then they’re most likely a good match.

Double check their qualifications

There are a couple ways you can find out whether the agent you’re considering is qualified. First off you can ask them how long they’ve been full time in the industry. Normally someone with about 5 years is a pretty seasoned Realtor and could be good for you. However, when doing this, don’t underestimate the new guy.

Next you can double check their credentials, talk to references, and see how many deals they have closed within the past year. All of this information will help you choose a real estate agent that meets your needs. Most of this information will be available online and if it isn’t, just ask for it.

Avoid double agents

One thing you may want to look out for is making sure the agent you choose isn’t working for both the buyer and the seller, whichever one you’re not. If they’re working for both parties it might be difficult for them to maintain an objective outlook on your situation.

Interview and trust your gut

Take the time to interview a few agents and take notes. Most importantly, don’t be afraid to ask questions. If someone doesn’t seem to fit your criteria then trust your instincts and move on to another candidate.

It’s all about you

You deserve to have a good experience with buying and/or selling your home. Pick a Realtor who is willing to be there for you and focus his or her efforts on helping you in any way possible, you’ll have a better time and will experience less stress.

What characteristics did you look for in your Realtor?

4 Reasons to Get Pre-Qualified

Find out how you will benefit from getting pre-qualified before contacting a Realtor.

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