Picking the right agent to represent you in the purchase of your new home is
extremely important. There are many elements that you want to look at before deciding
to commit to an agent. Once you find the agent for you, make sure that your loyalties
remain with that agent as they will be working countless hours helping you find
the right home. If your feelings for your agent change, be up front with them
and terminate the relationship before moving to another agent. By doing this you
could avoid a sticky situation as to which agent introduced you to the house and
possibly lose your dream home. Below are some helpful hints when looking for a
buyer’s agent:
 Does the agent:
- Have an active real estate license in good standing? Check with the governing
agency in your state if you’re not sure.
- Have years of experience in the business? If not, does the agent work under
the close supervision of an experienced broker who will assist you if necessary?
- Have a good reputation for trustworthiness? Ask for names of buyers who’ve
used the agent recently and talk to them.
- Know the areas you’re interested in and regularly sell homes there?
- Have time to work with you?
- Have a professional demeanor? This person will represent you to sellers, other
agents, lenders, etc.
- Discuss agency relationships with you? Can the agent work with you in an agency
relationship that you find acceptable?
- Have a personality you can relate to?
- Interview you regarding your housing needs and wants?
- Return phone calls promptly?
- Answer real estate questions in a manner that you understand?
- Provide you with a list of properties he or she is showing you?
- Show you homes that suit your needs?
- Have some knowledge of home construction?
- Belong to the multiple-listing service and/or home shopping services for the
area you want to look in?
- Qualify you for a loan, or introduce you to a lender or mortgage broker who
can?
- Complete a closing cost estimate for you?
- Provide you with recommendations of lenders, mortgage brokers, inspectors,
insurance agents, title agents, real estate attorneys, movers, etc.?
- Have any schedule conflicts that will interfere with your
home hunt? If so, interview the agent who’ll fill in.
|
|
|