How to Choose a Realtor: 5 Tips for Picking a Real Estate Agent
Choosing a real estate agent - it’s arguably the most essential part of buying or selling a home. Why? Because buying and selling a home can be extremely stressful, and finding an agent that’s “just right” can make all the difference. And pro tip - think again if you’re considering going the “DIY” route. Buying or selling a home is an extremely complex and time-consuming process. Trust me, you should leave it to the professionals!
When searching for a real estate agent or REALTOR®, here are five tips to help you decide:
Ask your friends and family for referrals.
Often, the best recommendation you can get is one from a friend. Before searching online for an agent, ask your friends or family who they’ve worked with. Asking them provides some sense of security and gives you first-hand insight into their experience in buying or selling a home with that agent.
Now, it’s time to do your research.
Now that you have a few recommendations, it’s time to get to work! Research the real estate agents online, including a simple online search and checking their social media. And don’t forget to read online reviews to see what their clients have to say. Remember, there will inevitably be a few negative reviews, but if the negative outweighs the positive, you can cross them off your list. The goal here is to develop a short list of agents so you can meet with them and get a real feel for who they are and what they can do for you.
Prepare for the “interview.”
Now that you have your shortlist, it’s time to interview the candidates! And when I say “interview,” I mean it. Buying or selling a home can be very stressful, so you want to ensure you’re working with someone who really gets you! Plus, coming prepared with questions provides a more comprehensive view of who you’ll work with and if they’re a good fit. Ask about prior sales, neighborhood experience, their work style, and any other factors you think are essential.
Review your contract.
Once you’ve chosen your REALTOR®, they’ll offer a buyer agency agreement or a listing agreement to seal the deal. And, like any agreement, you should take some time to review it. Typically, the contract will detail the agent’s commission and the length of the contract. Review it carefully and discuss any concerns you may have with your agent.
Above all, go with your gut.
I’ve outlined all the steps you need to thoughtfully pick a real estate agent, but at the end of the day - it’s up to you. If a REALTOR® is good on paper, but you’re not “feeling them,” don’t work with them. Often, a good agent-client relationship depends more upon a match in personalities than experience.
