Finding the right real estate agent to help you buy or sell a home can be tricky. Sometimes you may find that your agent doesn’t listen to your needs and wants, leading you down a path that benefits their interests more than yours. You may also find yourself dealing with an inexperienced agent who may make critical mistakes that could cost you time or money. To avoid these potential problems, find a real estate agent who is knowledgeable about the real estate market in your area, has the resources necessary to complete your transaction quickly and effectively and will work with you rather than against you during the buying or selling process.
1. Do Your Research
Whether you’re looking for an agent to sell your home or someone to help you find a new one, do your research. Each agent has a different style, and some are better at negotiating than others. Be sure to talk with multiple agents before making your final decision. Even after you decide on an agent, it’s important to stay in touch regularly, as there will always be details that arise that require professional handling.
2. Look for Local Experience
If you’re planning to relocate, it’s important to find a real estate agent who has experience selling homes in your area. An experienced realtor is familiar with local market trends and what factors are important when buying or selling a home. If you move somewhere unfamiliar, use online resources to learn about new local real estate brokers and agents before committing to one. You should also speak with friends and family members who have worked with local agents in your community for references.
3. Hire a Good Listener
Good listeners are invaluable. It doesn’t take a real estate agent with 20 years of experience to help you find your dream home—it just takes someone who is good at listening. As you search for an agent, ask friends and family if they know of anyone trustworthy who may be able to guide you through your first-time home-buying experience. Also check out online review sites like Yelp and Zillow.
4. Know What Types of Homes They Work With
In order to find a good agent, it’s important to know exactly what types of homes you’re looking for. Is your ideal home a mid-century ranch or do you prefer something more contemporary? Do you have children or are you looking for a quiet place just for yourself? Do you have any pets that need to be accommodated? Knowing what kind of property is best for your lifestyle will make it easier to choose an agent that specializes in homes like yours.
5. Ask Questions
Your agent should know the market and neighborhoods like nobody else, so ask for their opinions about where you should look. As a good starting point, figure out your top three requirements for a new home and let them know up front. Perhaps most importantly, meet with at least two or three agents before making a decision. Since they all have different styles, it’s important to pick someone who matches up with your personality and communication style. You may feel more comfortable working with an agent who has experience in selling homes similar to yours (for example, an agent selling houses in your neighborhood). Or you might want someone more experienced selling larger properties (like townhomes or condos) if that is what you’re looking for.