What to look for in a trusted real estate agent
Buying a home is exciting!! But also a little overwhelming if you don’t know what steps to take.
Where do you start!?
First of all do you have any family, friends, or neighbors who have recently bought a home? What was their experience like? Who do they recommend?
Next, reach out on social media. Search groups or hash tags that are in your area. Or ask for a referral in a public post. You will have SEVERAL referrals from people who had great experiences with their realtor.
From these referrals, look them up! If you find a realtor who you are drawn to, reach out!
I honestly recommend talking to several realtors. We all have different personalities and come from various backgrounds. It is important that you feel comfortable with the agent you choose.
Things to watch for….
1. Aggressive realtors
There is no need to feel rushed or pushed into buying a home. Take your time. This is a huge investment
2. Agents who say they are #1
Buying a home is about you and your family… not the realtor. Plus #1 agents don’t have time to work with you because they are too busy.
3. A Realtor who tells you what you need.
You already know what you need. A trusted realtor will listen to your needs and find you exactly what works
4. It just doesn’t feel right
Trust your gut.
You need to trust your agent. This person will have very personal information about you (financial and family information) and is helping you invest.
If it doesn’t feel right, most times it isn’t.
It’s OK to shop around for a realtor who you feel truly puts your best interests first.
What are the top 3 ways a realtor can help you find a home?
1. Realtors have access to information that the general public doesn’t.
When you want to start looking to make the biggest investment in your life, a real estate agent can be a huge help.
Once a realtor understands your needs, they will have inside market knowledge that can help point you in the right direction
and they have a huge network of different professionals to help as well! Like a mortgage broker, real estate lawyers, home cleaners/inspection services.. the list goes on.
You need your realtor to refer you to the right professionals during this process, starting with a financial expert
2. A Realtor knows when a home is being prepared to be listed.
Realtors know people and the communities they serve. Often times, previous clients will reach out and start the process of selling their home.
Sometimes it takes a while to prepare the home for sale. For example, completing renovations or decluttering.
If your realtor has a potential buyer in mind, the home can be sold before it is listed for sale.
This is called a “pocket listing”.
3. A Realtor is very valuable through the negotiation process.
Buying and selling a home can be very emotional for both parties- home buyers and people selling their home.
Sometimes, both parties are not in agreement with the offer. The purchase price, possession date, or other conditions of sale.
A realtor who is considering your best interests will help provide different perspectives. In a neutral, factual way.
Plus, a realtor knows your bottom lines and what you need. So they can strongly advocate for you during the entire process.
