Every real estate agent is different. Some have more licenses or certifications than others. Some specialize in certain fields while others work all-around. Some realtors work alone while others have their own team or company with them.
No one else can say who would be the best fit for you except you. But one thing’s for sure—some realtors are a better fit for you than others. And it’s important to make sure they’re the ones you hire to work with you.
Real estate investments are major undertakings. That’s why (even before you start) you should make the extra effort to look for people you can trust as you embark on your journey.
Header image source: Pexels
Where to Find Trusted Realtors
One way to find realtors is by tapping into your own network. Ask your family, friends, and acquaintances if they know someone who can help you. It’s better if they’ve personally worked with the agent before so that they can tell you about the agent’s service in detail.
Another way to go about finding realtors is through search engines. Do a simple Google search of real estate agents in the area you’re looking to buy a house in. This will draw up some sites owned by real estate agents and you can then check them out for yourself.
But these don’t guarantee that you’d get the right realtor for you. And it could take you quite some time to go through every referral or site.
If you want something that does a much better job at connecting you to the right realtors, go on a site with agent matching services such as REALTOR.ca or Keasy.
Through these, you can narrow down your search and increase your chances of finding the perfect realtor for you. It also saves you a lot of time so that you can focus more on making sure they’re the right fit.
Should You Interview Realtors?
By all means, yes. As a matter of fact, it’s the only way to make sure that you find the right realtor for you.
Interviewing is the best way to get a glimpse into the kind of expertise that a realtor can bring to the table. It’s a way to get to know them and gauge whether they can help you sell your home or buy one at a good deal.
The only thing about interviewing realtors, though, is that you also have to know what to ask them. Here are some questions to ask a realtor.
You’re always free to add more questions if you feel like it would help you decide better. Don’t hesitate to ask even the questions that you think are a no-brainer. It would be better for you and the realtor to clear things up before you start working together.
Finding the Right Realtor
To find the right realtor, you have to interview at least three agents. This would help you compare each one with and contrast them from the others. Get a feel of how they work with you as a potential client.
You’re looking for someone who explains things to you clearly (especially if you’re a first-time seller or buyer). This also helps you understand the process. Also, find someone who gives you clear and concrete approaches to your situation.
Every real estate transaction is different. So, rather than looking for a good-sounding template answer, go with someone who has tailored solutions and plans for you.
Once you’ve talked to some agents, request them for some references you can check with. You can always go with Google or site reviews. But the best way to find out more about the kind of service that an agent can give is to talk with some of their past clients.
Hiring a Realtor
Image source: Pexels
Hiring a realtor involves a mix of objective and subjective evaluation. They do have to meet a certain standard or criteria which make them the right fit for you. But then again, you also have to listen to your gut.
You can have an agent that seems very professional and reliable. But if something about them feels a little off, you might want to try finding someone else. You should be able to feel that you can completely trust them—because you will have to. The vibe always has to fit, too.
Again, here are some things you should know before hiring a realtor:
- Ask for referrals from friends and family. Do a Google search of the realtors in the area you’re looking to buy into. Try agent matching services to make it easier and faster for you to find the right agent.
- Do some research on the agents and get a feel of the type of service they can give you. You can check their website to see the services they offer.
- Interview at least three agents and weigh them against each other. Asking the right questions will help you decide better.
- Read reviews about the agent. Ask them for references and call these past clients. It helps you better understand how the agent works with their clients.
- Listen to your gut when hiring a realtor. Go with someone whom you feel comfortable working with. Both your personalities also have to match to make sure you can trust them in handling your real estate transaction.
