How to choose a realtor that fits you best
Choosing a real estate agent is like making any hiring decision – it should be done with deliberation. Bad reasons to choose an agent would be because you met him/her at a party or because he/she is a friend of your aunt who dabbles at it in her free time. Your agent is the person who will be your representative in managing a very important sale, and someone you will rely on heavily.
Four key factors to consider in hiring an agent are as follows:
- Do you like the candidate? For at least a short while you will be dealing with your agent regularly, sometimes in phone conversations several times a day – you had better like them!
- Do you trust their judgment? Your agent will be in a position to interpret the negotiations and make judgments as to what “the other side” may or may not do. You must feel the utmost confidence in their ability to properly price the property, identify a meaningful profile of the potential buyer, get your home exposed to other top-producing agents, maximize exposure to potential buyers, develop marketing materials suitable to the property and potential buyers and negotiate on your behalf to secure the best deal.
- Are they qualified? Selling real estate is like any other profession; it takes full time commitment (you wouldn't go to a part-time lawyer or doctor) and then some. It also takes a strong foundation, both academic and professional, to provide the very best service. Look carefully at the candidate's resume and discuss their track record, commitment, and availability with them.
- What is their standing in the real estate community? Is your agent respected and liked among other Realtors? Will the other Realtors welcome the opportunity to work with your agent? Will they volunteer information about properties and new listings to your agent, or avoid being involved with them? These things may sometimes be difficult to ascertain but can have a large affect on your real estate experience. An agent with good relationships in the brokerage community has access to information that may prove crucial in finding that dream home or negotiating the best deal for you.
