Purchasing a new home takes a whole lot of prep work. From cleaning up your credit score to saving for the down payment and home hunting to finding the right realtor, you’ll have your hands full for at least a few months. Selling isn’t any easier. Staging, marketing, and many other tasks can quickly drain your energy.
Yet, that’s usually just the beginning. To find the best deal, you need a comrade in arms – someone who knows the market inside out.
A close ally to hold your hand and help you buy a home you can truly call home or, in the case of selling, help you sell quickly for a reasonable price. This ally usually comes in the form of a realtor.
So, how do you find a great realtor? We’ll tell you exactly how. But first,
Where do you find great realtors
Finding a realtor shouldn’t be difficult. Finding a great one, however, is no easy task. While every realtor claims to be the best, only a handful can be trusted. Nevertheless, we’ve rounded up a few places to start your search;
- Referrals
- Search online for agent listings
- Attend open houses
- Track print advertising
- Get recommendations from professionals
Questions to ask realtors
Once you’ve found a realtor company, the next step is to determine whether they are the right fit for you.
Don’t just assume that the nicest realtor will be the best. Most of them are nice because they want that commission. Also, don’t just settle for experience. Some experienced realtors don’t really mind about their clients. All they do is get you the house you want, and then off they go. That’s not a good realtor.
Here are a few quick questions to ask as you try to find that perfect realtor;
- How long have you been in the business?
- What geographic area do they work in?
- How will you communicate with me?
- Can you share references?
- How much do you charge?
A few warning signs to keep in mind
As you browse the internet, check print media, and ask your candidates all the questions discussed above, keep an eye for these warning signs;
- A realtor pricing your home too high
- The realtor is your relative
- Your realtor doesn’t understand the neighborhood
- A poor negotiator
- The realtor has never worked with buyers or sellers in your range
Wrap Up!
That’s it. Now you know where to look when trying to find a realtor, what questions to ask the realtor as you try to gauge their suitability, and even a few warning signs to help you spot risky candidates.
