Buying or selling a home is a major milestone in any person’s life, so it’s important
to choose an agent who will be a good fit for you and your goals. Many people
choose their real estate agents based on referrals from friends and family, but this is
not always the best approach. Instead, take the time to do your research and read
reviews about potential agents online.
Review sites like Google and Zillow provide an unbiased view of past customer
experiences with real estate agents. The reviews can reveal a lot about an agent’s
experience, local knowledge, negotiating skills and responsiveness.
You can also find out more about an agent by asking them questions during the
interview process. Here are some common questions to ask, along with tips on how
to answer them:
How long have you been in the business?
The agent’s answer to this question will tell you about their level of experience and
whether they have a stable, respectable business. The more years they’ve been in
the industry, the better.
Do you have any certifications or special training?
Some real estate agents have additional qualifications, such as being a certified
buyer’s agent or having special training in dealing with short sales. These
qualifications can make them a great fit for buyers looking for a specific type of
property or sellers who may have unique situations that require extra attention and
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What kind of experience do you have working with first-time home buyers?
If you’re a first-time buyer, it’s important to hire an agent who understands the
intricacies of the home buying process. A good agent will take the time to
understand your needs and help you find a home that fits your lifestyle and budget.
Do you have a list of must-haves and nice-to-haves?
Creating a list of your must-haves and nice-to-haves will help you narrow down your
search for homes. It will also give your agent an idea of what kind of properties
you’re interested in, which will help them avoid showing you homes that aren’t a
good fit for you.
How quickly do you respond to calls, texts and emails?
An agent who doesn’t respond promptly to communications can miss out on
opportunities and create misunderstandings. A good real estate agent will respond
within 24 hours, at the latest.
If you’re selling your home, be wary of an agent who talks up their commission rate
in the initial conversation. This can suggest that they’re more concerned with their
paycheck than their clients. A good real estate agent will be honest with you about
what your home is worth and how much it will sell for.
Be sure to discuss any unique requirements you have for your transaction, such as a
strict deadline or needing to fall within a certain time frame to avoid capital gains
taxes. These details are crucial to making sure your agent is on the same page as
you are.
