5 Things to Look for in a REALTOR®
No matter where you live, there are always plenty of real estate agents to choose from. You might even know a few, or have a couple of referrals from family or friends. So how do you know who will best represent you in your buying and/or selling transaction? We recommend you interview at least three REALTORS® before deciding who will best represent you. Here’s a quick list of five things to look for when you’re doing your initial search.
1. Understanding of technology.
Today’s home transactions happen in real-time. With so many people starting their home search with the Internet, can your REALTOR® get you up and in the big real estate sites immediately? If your dream home pops up online, will they notify you (or help you set up text or email notifications) so you’re one of the first to see it? Ask your REALTOR® what technology they plan to use to buy/sell your home and visit their website to get a feel for its most recent update.
2. Knowledge of the area.
Picking a real estate agent out of thin air won’t do you much good if they don’t know the area you’re interested in. Neighborhoods that look good on paper may be notorious for flooding or high homeowner’s insurance rates. An agent who lives and works in the area can give you information about the school district, or if you can do a “school of choice” to attend another. They can point out that you probably need to have four-wheel drive if you plan to buy in that neighborhood on the hill because it tends to snow in late October. There are lots of little things that only a local will know that can help you choose the right house for you.
3. Responsiveness.
If a real estate agent doesn’t return your calls or emails in a timely manner, find someone else. There are plenty of professionals who will make you a priority! Start your search by reading online reviews or client testimonials. Someone with an assistant, or who is part of a team, will increase their responsiveness – other team members can assist you if your agent is not available at a given time. An assistant can get that paperwork in quickly, speeding up your home-buying or selling process.
4. Referrals
Real estate agents who have information regarding mortgage companies, appraisers or contractors can have an advantage in getting you timely and affordable help. Sometimes things pop up in other areas of the transaction, like the mortgage, inspection items, etc. A large network of referrals can be beneficial to find solutions.
5. Experience.
A good REALTOR® wears many hats. Some can help you with staging, explain the benefits and pitfalls of short sales, tell you the history of local architecture or even advise you about questionable conditions (e.g., loud plumbing, a leaky roof or drafty windows) in a home at first glance. They are working day and night to help you through one of the biggest financial transactions of your life, and they are dedicated to getting you into the home of your dreams.
Looking for a REALTOR® in your area? Our RE/MAX Alliance professionals are here to help! Feel free to search our agents and offices located across the front range: www.homesincolorado.com/find-real-estate-agents-offices