Buying or selling a property is a big investment that involves a huge sum of money and a lot of time. To maximize your investment, finding the right real estate agent is crucial. Whether you’re buying or selling a home, you need to find a trustworthy agent who you can rely on. The best realtor is one who will safeguard your financial interests and help you buy/sell a property as per your needs without wasting your time.
The time needed to buy or sell a house, the price you pay or receive, and the smooth completion of the transaction all depend on the real estate agent. Don’t get worried; follow this guideline to find the perfect real estate agent.
- Check agent’s license and credentials:
First, you need to understand that the terms agent, broker, and Realtor are different. All agents or brokers are not Realtors. A “Realtor” is a real estate agent who is a member of the National Association of Realtors, and they abide by NAR’s strict code of conduct. Also, real estate agents get some additional training in particular areas. Check their designation before hiring, for example, CRS (Certified Residential Specialist), ABR (Accredited Buyer’s Representative). You must check if the agent is licensed and any disciplinary actions or a complaint against them. - Experience matters:
Experience matters as you want someone with a good client base and knowledge of the area and homes in your price range. Ask the agent or the state licensing authority about how long the person has been in the business. According to experts, usually, more than five years of experience is a good indication. - Get reviews and referrals:
Talk to your friends, neighbors, and co-workers to get referrals for a real estate agent with a good history. The best realtor is one who shows up on time, makes deals of your kind, and addresses all your concerns. You may also ask the agent to provide details of his past clients and what type of home they bought/or sold. Apart from this, you can always do your own research over the internet. - An expert in the local real estate market:
Real estate is a local game, and your real estate agent should have complete knowledge about the local market. A Realtor who is familiar with the area will recommend the best price to buy or sell within your local market. The agent can also help you with information on the community, the schools, taxes, and other facts.
To find the perfect real estate agent, you should always do a bit of your own due diligence, as this will pay off in the long run. Buying or selling a home is a big transaction, so always do your own research.
