Buying a house is a major event in life. It can be stressful and exciting, and potential homebuyers should find an excellent real estate agent to walk them through the process. Keep reading for the best tips on finding a great agent.
Table of Contents
Ask for Referrals
Ask friends and family if they can recommend a real estate agent with whom they’ve worked in the past. Homebuyers may find it helpful to hire an agent with experience working with clients similar to them. For example, first-time homebuyers have different needs than people buying a vacation home or those downsizing.
There is a difference between a buyer’s agent and a seller’s agent. The buyer’s agent represents the person buying the house, while a selling agent is the one who lists, prices, and markets the home. Some states allow for a dual agent, where the same agent does both jobs. Because there can be risks involved, some states do not allow this.
Research Online
Do some online research to find local, reputable real estate agents in the area. Check online to ensure the agent is licensed and to see if they have any disciplinary actions against them. It is also a good idea to check with the Better Business Bureau to see if anyone has filed complaints against the potential agent.
Interview the Top Candidates
An agent must be familiar with the geographic area of the property’s sale. They also must understand the potential homebuyer or home seller’s needs and budget. Look for someone savvy at presenting themselves. Ask how long they have been working in real estate and if they work part or full-time. It can be helpful to ask what the average price range is and the neighborhoods of homes they buy and sell in.
Ask for References
During the interview process, ask potential agents for references. These references should be someone that they have listed or sold a house for or someone who they have helped purchase a home in the last year. Follow up by reaching out to those clients and asking what their experience was like. Would they hire the agent again? Were they satisfied with the transaction?
Choose a Trustworthy Agent
In the end, potential homebuyers should choose an agent they feel comfortable with and trust. Buying a house can be a challenging process. Homebuyers should select someone that will put them on the right track and answer all their questions along the way.
Evaluate the Contract
Once a homebuyer chooses an agent, they should look at the contract carefully. The commission should be set, and typically the seller pays this fee. This commission rate is usually six percent, but clients can negotiate a lower rate sometimes. Homebuyers should choose a contract that is not longer than six months in case they want to change agents after that time.
With low inventory and high prices, today’s housing market can be challenging. Finding an excellent real estate agent can help the process go more smoothly.
