5 Things to Keep in Mind When Hiring a Real Estate Agent
The right real estate agent can make all the difference when it comes to your home purchase. It’s important to find an agent who is a good fit for you, your budget and your goals. With thousands of agents vying for your business, it can feel overwhelming when it comes time to pick one.
Buying or selling a home can be an emotional and stressful process, but the right real estate agent will help make it less so. Whether you’re looking for the perfect apartment, a cozy condo or a spacious house, it’s vital to choose a real estate professional who understands your needs and can guide you through the entire process.
Here are 5 things to keep in mind when hiring a real estate agent:
Experience and credentials
It’s best to choose a real estate agent who has the credentials you need, such as an Accredited Buyer Representative (ABR) or Certified Buyer Representative (CBR). Certifications are a sign of professional competence and can tell you that an agent is knowledgeable about the market, contracts and laws involved in your transaction.
An experienced agent will also be familiar with the local market, including upcoming changes that could affect your property’s value. They should know the average days to sell and current list price, so you can get an accurate idea of your property’s worth.
A positive sale-to-list price ratio suggests that they’re getting your home sold for more than it’s listed for, which is the best way to ensure you get the most for your home. It’s also crucial to choose an agent who has an excellent track record in your neighborhood, says Jordan.
Your social network is a great place to start when it comes to finding a real estate agent. Your friends and family may have purchased a property recently, and you can ask them for recommendations. Read more https://www.henryhomebuyer.com/
You can also check online reviews to learn about a person’s experience with a specific agent. However, it’s also a good idea to interview multiple agents before you decide which one is the right fit for you.
Communication
Your real estate agent will be in contact with you during every step of the homebuying or selling process, so it’s essential to find someone who you can easily communicate with. Ideally, you want to find an agent who is accessible to answer questions during the hours that are most convenient for you.
If you’re interviewing several agents, be sure to ask about their time availability. Many real estate agents work long hours, and you don’t want to be unable to reach them on weekends or evenings if something arises.
Personal style
Choosing a real estate agent with a style that matches your own is critical, because it will impact how they communicate and interact with you throughout the homebuying or selling process. A friendly and honest personality is key, but it’s also important to choose an agent who has a high level of professionalism.