The age old question... "How do I find a GOOD realtor?" In the technology age where the choices at times seem endless, and the dapper pictures of Realtors posing with different props and scenery can be confusing to say the least! Do you choose the brightest smile, the most serious, the one next to the SOLD sign, or the one with the cute puppy?
A good start to choosing the right Realtor is to first ask friends and family for recommendations. A professional with local expertise is very important in qualifying someone. Look online at their website and at their blog posts to get an idea of their knowledge in the industry. Google their name.
Secondly, it is important that you take time to interview the agent of choice. Ask them about their sales history, their area knowledge and most importantly about their customer service plans. The biggest complaint among consumers is that they do not receive enough communication from their Realtor. Ask the agent you meet with what you can expect from them. Ask about their marketing plan and their negotiation skills. Keep in mind that if they do not demonstrate strong negotiation skills when it comes to their commission, which is essentially their own income, imagine how they will negotiate when it is not their money at stake.
You should also ask if they have any testimonials from past clients. The rapport that you establish is going to be key throughout the transaction. It will allow for a successful business relationship between you and your agent.
Is the agent part time or full time? Find out if the agent is part of a team. Remember that with a team there are multiple people looking out for your best interest. How is the team structured?
Lastly, it is so important to hire an agent with the utmost integrity. Trust your intuition when meeting with someone. The purchase or sale of real estate is one of the largest financial transactions you will make. The Realtor you choose is the facilitator of this. Decide carefully.
~ The Shopper and The Pilot
A good start to choosing the right Realtor is to first ask friends and family for recommendations. A professional with local expertise is very important in qualifying someone. Look online at their website and at their blog posts to get an idea of their knowledge in the industry. Google their name.
Secondly, it is important that you take time to interview the agent of choice. Ask them about their sales history, their area knowledge and most importantly about their customer service plans. The biggest complaint among consumers is that they do not receive enough communication from their Realtor. Ask the agent you meet with what you can expect from them. Ask about their marketing plan and their negotiation skills. Keep in mind that if they do not demonstrate strong negotiation skills when it comes to their commission, which is essentially their own income, imagine how they will negotiate when it is not their money at stake.
You should also ask if they have any testimonials from past clients. The rapport that you establish is going to be key throughout the transaction. It will allow for a successful business relationship between you and your agent.
Is the agent part time or full time? Find out if the agent is part of a team. Remember that with a team there are multiple people looking out for your best interest. How is the team structured?
Lastly, it is so important to hire an agent with the utmost integrity. Trust your intuition when meeting with someone. The purchase or sale of real estate is one of the largest financial transactions you will make. The Realtor you choose is the facilitator of this. Decide carefully.
~ The Shopper and The Pilot