Whether you’re buying your first home or selling an existing one, finding the right real estate agent is crucial. A good realtor will guide you through the process, and can make or break how quickly your home sells and for how much money.
If you don’t know where to start, ask for recommendations from friends and family members who have recently sold a property or purchased a home. They can tell you their experiences, both good and bad, and provide you with an honest appraisal of the agent’s professionalism and negotiating skills.
Once you’ve narrowed your list of potential how to find a realtor, set up a time to meet with them in person. You can do this via text, phone or email. In the meeting, pay attention to how comfortable you are with them. If you don’t feel a connection, it may not be the right fit for you. Also, look for signs of aggressiveness. If an agent tries to push you into signing the listing agreement during your initial meeting, they may be prioritizing their commission over your needs.
You should also check an agent’s background and training to be sure they have the experience you need. For example, some agents have special certifications to work with certain types of buyers, such as seniors or military members. Other agents specialize in particular neighborhoods, and have a deep knowledge of the area, including schools, roads, shopping, swim and tennis clubs, and more. You can also ask the agent about any recent industry changes, and how those might impact your sale.
Finally, you should be aware that some agents only work part time, which can present issues if an unexpected event arises during the sales process (think bidding wars or last-minute closing snafus). If this is the case, the agent should make it clear how often they’ll be available to communicate with you, and be prepared to address urgent matters immediately when necessary.
Once you’ve gotten to know some of the potential agents in your area, take some time to visit open houses. This is an excellent opportunity to evaluate the agent’s presentation style, and how well they interact with their clients. If you like what you see, invite the agent to give a presentation at your home.
When choosing a realtor, don’t let the hype around “the best” real estate agents fool you. The most important thing is to find an agent who prioritizes your needs and has a solid understanding of the local market. After all, your home is one of the biggest financial investments you’ll make. Be sure to interview several agents, and don’t be afraid to ask for referrals from friends and neighbors. By taking the time to choose the right realtor, you can be confident your home will sell quickly and for the best price possible. Good luck!