Buying or selling a home is one of the biggest financial decisions in your life. Choosing the right real estate agent can make the difference between a smooth process and a lot of stress. But what do you look for when choosing a real estate agent? Here are the five most important considerations.
#1 Experience and reputation: the basics
You want a real estate agent who knows what he or she is doing. One with experience in the area where you want to buy or sell and a good reputation. Ask friends, family or colleagues for recommendations and check online reviews. A good real estate agent will have satisfied customers who will be happy to share that.
#2 Personal click: you have to do it
You're going to spend a lot of time with your real estate agent. So a personal click is important. Look not only at what a real estate agent promises, but also how he or she communicates. Is it someone you feel comfortable with, who takes your questions seriously and whom you can trust?
#3 Services and costs: know what you're getting
Not all brokers offer the same services, and costs can vary considerably. Make sure you have a clear idea of exactly what is included in the package. Think about things like viewings, negotiations and legal support. And, of course, what all that will cost. Is the commission a fixed amount, or a percentage of the purchase or sale price? Are there snags such as extra costs?
#4 Market insight: local knowledge counts
The housing market can vary greatly by location. A real estate agent with local market knowledge is golden. Not only does he or she know what the houses are worth, but also how the neighborhood is developing, what the future plans are, and which homes will soon be on the market. This kind of information can be crucial in your decision.
#5 Flexibility: it has to work
Sometimes circumstances change and you want to move quickly. How flexible is the real estate agent when it comes to extra viewings, last-minute changes or unforeseen problems? Flexibility can reduce a lot of stress and make the process go more smoothly.
Finding a good real estate agent is an important step in the buying or selling process. Therefore, spend plenty of time finding the right person. With these five considerations in mind, you will go a long way toward finding a real estate agent that fits your situation and needs. After all, it's not just about a house, it's about your home.
