There are somewhere between 4 and 6 million active real estate agents worldwide. So how do you choose the one person who can help you achieve your goals?
Knowing how to choose a real estate agent doesn't have to feel like a grueling process.
Instead, you can find someone who is equipped and ready to help.
Here are 10 questions to ask real estate agent candidates. With these questions, you can search for someone who can help you search for a new home.
1. How Long Have You Worked In Real Estate?
The number you get in response to this question is more than just a number. The amount of time a real estate agent has worked in their industry doesn't signify successes.
Their dedication, time, and effort can indicate they'll give that same dedication to helping you, though.
Real estate is a commission-based job. An agent who stuck with such a competitive industry for a long time knows their stuff.
After all, it's difficult to survive with all the ups and downs in the housing market. They wouldn't still be around if they were an unsuccessful agent who offers terrible service.
Instead, take their experience into consideration.
An agent who's been around will have the knowledge necessary to navigate any challenges that head their way.
2. How Many Clients Do You Have Right Now?
An agent that's juggling dozens of clients won't have time to spare. You need to find a real estate agent who can dedicate their time and attention to your needs.
If they do handle a lot of clients, dig a little deeper.
Ask the agent how they manage their clients all at once. What happens if there's a scheduling conflict? They might already have solutions in place for when these problems arise.
Even so, you might want a real estate agent who can dedicate their time to your schedule. Otherwise, finding a home in your proposed timeframe might prove challenging.
3. What is Your Buyers to Sellers Ratio?
Usually, a real estate agent works with one more often than the other.
While many people prefer to specialize, it's best to have a well-rounded agent at your side. That way, they're not limited by a narrow perspective. If they've only worked with buyers, they might not be equipped to help you sell.
The reverse applies as well.
If you're looking to sell your current home and buy a new one, look for an agent experienced with both. The process will feel a lot easier (and you won't have to go looking for additional help).
4. What Area Do You Cover?
Some agents dedicate their time and attention to a single part of town. They might also be experts in a specific neighborhood.
Others will fly across the country to help their clients.
When determining how to choose a real estate agent, look for someone in between.
Find an agent who can expand beyond a small area but still has knowledge of local markets.
The city you live in might seem vast, making it difficult for you to narrow down options on your own. A real estate agent who is familiar with the local area can help pinpoint the part of town you're looking for.
5. Do You Have a Recommended Vendors List?
Experienced agents develop a list of trusted vendors and connections over time. Their relationships with title companies, contractors, lenders, and inspectors can help you achieve your goals.
However, these should only be recommendations.
Remember, you choose who you work with.
6. Are You Part of a Team or Solo?
If you have access to an entire team, they might be able to offer a wider range of knowledge and experience. Usually, one person has more intimate knowledge of a part of town or situation than another.
Make sure you determine whether or not you're working with a single agent.
Establishing this beforehand will help you know what to expect. Otherwise, you might get passed off from one person to the next.
7. What Do You Need From Me?
A real estate agent should care about your goals and priorities. Otherwise, they can't help you achieve them.
If your agent intends on providing a client-centered service, they'll know what to ask.
For example, they should want to get to know you. That way, they know what you care about and what you expect during the entire process.
8. Can You Help Me Achieve My Goals?
It usually takes 10 weeks for buyers to look at 10 properties before buying a home. However, you might have a tighter schedule.
Be upfront about your goals. If you have a specific time frame, let the real estate agent know. If you're selling an estate, want to flip a house, or are a first-time buyer, say so.
This is more than learning how to choose a real estate agent; it's about choosing the right one.
Finding someone who has the experience and expertise to help your unique situation will make the process easier in the long run.
9. How Will We Communicate?
Set expectations for communication from the beginning.
Choose a real estate agent who knows the importance of client relationships. They should also be someone who pays attention to the little details.
A little extra attention can make a big impact when you're searching for a new home.
10. Can You Provide References?
An agent's past clients can give you an opinion about the real estate agent from your same point of view.
However, agents are likely to choose references they know had a positive experience. In some cases, it's best to take these reference reviews lightly.
The Quick Q&A: How to Choose a Real Estate Agent
Knowing how to choose a real estate agent will take the stress out of your home buying experience. With these questions, you can find the perfect fit. Now you can find a real estate agent who's ready to help you achieve your goals.
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