When buying or selling a property, a time will come when you will need a real estate agent. That is the time you start making frantic calls to family and friends. You can either do that or sit back and read this article to the end. This is what you need to do.
- Do your research
- Connect at a personal level with the real estate agent
- Pick experience over flashy marketing
- Check the license
- Prepare for the interview
1. Do Your Research
Referrals are perfect. However, dig deeper into the larger pool of existing agents. Compare the recommended agent with others in the locality. You can confidently call them if you still think they compare well. In your research, look for online reviews and ratings. Check for awards and recommendations, too.
2. Connect At a Personal Level with the Real Estate Agent
Technology is making things simple. Any agent can access many online tools that can help him or her market a property or find a suitable real estate property.
Even people who are not agents can start doing that. When it comes to buying and selling property, it boils down to how you connect with your agent. You want an agent who can understand you at a personal level.
3. Pick Experience over Flashy Marketing
Focus on specialization. If you want a family unit, pick an agent who has relevant experience in that area. Check the current portfolio. How many listings are there? How many clients has the agent served in the past six months?
Some people have 20 years of industry experience, but they have mediocre ratings. Insist on active profiles and good customer ratings.
4. Check the License
A good agent has a license to operate within your area. He or she is a member of a professional body, too. People who lack such crucial traits are not professionals. They are just trying to be agents. The good thing with registered agents is that they subscribe to an ethical code. In case of any misconduct, they face disciplinary actions. You should visit the Chestnut Park website if you would like more information.
5. Prepare for the interview
Some people skip interviews. Well, that is not a good idea. Do not just show up to do a handshake deal, show up armed with your best personality. Also, ask all the relevant questions. A good agent will hand you over his or her file in advance. You will see all the listings and previous jobs.
Whether you are buying or selling, pick a real estate agent that you feel comfortable with. Connect with the person. Ensure he or she has a license and relevant experience to handle your real estate transaction.
