Referrals. Internet. Yard Signs. Real Estate Offices. All are good ways to find a Real Estate Agent. But how do you know that you found the right Agent to help you find the right house?
Location. Find out the agents office location. You do not want a Real Estate Agent that is not familiar with the area you wish to buy in. Chances are they will not be familiar with the sales in the area to help you judge when you run across a good deal. Most areas also have slower selling areas, location issues, and taxes differences. All these items could increase or decrease the value of the home you might be thinking to purchase. A realtor not familiar with the area could potentially help you get a home that may not be the best home.
Experience. A seasoned negotiator can help you save thousands. All contracts have deadlines and require attention to detail to help you get you desires across. All these things come with experience. However, make sure they are not SO experienced that they really don’t have time to help you.
Flexible. Does the Real Estate Agents schedule work with yours? If, you are only available to look at nights. And they only have an hour on weeknights to show you. Then that Real Estate Agent is probably not the best fit. Or say you would like to close in thirty days. But it is the same week that your agent is planning a vacation. Be aware you may be working part of the buying process without the help you were counting on.
Personalities. You will be spending a lot of time with your Real Estate Agent. Make sure the next three months (+ or -) are not a miserable experience. Pick an agent you trust and can handle being around.
Agreements. Be prepared to sign a Buyers Representation Agreement (may be different in your state) with your agent. These are created to protect you and the agent. Realize the Agreements are negotiable. So if you aren’t quite sure the agent you picked is the right fit limit the time frame or the area. This will help you protect your interests in the long run.
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