Tips to help you choose the right agent for your real estate transaction
Selling or buying a house may seem like an impossible task sometimes, but that is why there are real estate agents to help you every step of the way. How do you find an agent who gives you the service you deserve, while also being someone you get along with? Well, here are five tips to help in your search for an agent.Look for a San Antonio area REALTOR®
As a consumer, you want your licensed agent to be a REALTOR®. Agents who have chosen to be REALTORS® follow a Code of Ethics that protects their clients’ interests. REALTORS® also have access to more than 100 forms that nonmembers cannot use, which means that your San Antonio area REALTOR® has forms for many real estate situations that non-REALTOR® agents do not.
Ask people you trust
One of the top ways REALTORS® gain new clients is through referrals. If a friend, family member, coworker, or other person who you trust has bought or sold property, you can ask them for recommendations of local agents. These people are likely to tell you the truth about their experience working with that agent, so don’t be afraid to ask for the good, the bad, and the ugly.
Determine your needs
Are you a young professional looking for your first home? Are you a first-time seller? Do you have to move quickly? Before you begin your search, think about your situation and how you would explain it to a prospective REALTOR®. Once you figure out your needs, you’ll have a better sense of what to discuss with a REALTOR® when it’s time to go through your choices.
Conduct interviews before making a choice
Once you’ve narrowed down your list of potential REALTORS®, set up interviews to ask them questions about their services and explain what you are looking for. It’s important you connect with someone whose personality and work style work well with your own unique expectations. Here’s a list of potential questions worth asking:
· What is your communication style? If you prefer certain types of contact or expect to be in touch with a certain frequency, be sure to mention those preferences in your interview.
· What does your marketing plan entail? Sellers should find out how a REALTOR® plans to market their home to prospective buyers.
· Do you specialize in my situation? Some REALTORS® focus on specific areas, demographics, and transaction types. For example, if you’d like to sell some land, a San Antonio area REALTOR® who specializes in farm and ranch transactions might be best for you.
Talk to their other clients
Even if you received a recommendation for a San Antonio area REALTOR® from someone you know, you may want to talk to other past and present clients during the vetting process. This could give you a chance to hear from someone who has a similar situation as yours and can explain how the agent handled it.
It may take some time to find a REALTOR® who meets all your needs, but it will be worth it in the end. A REALTOR® is the best person to provide guidance about each step, give you advice, and help you reach your goals throughout the entire real estate transaction.
For more information on buying, selling, or leasing your home visit SABOR.com and find a San Antonio area REALTOR® today.