Finding a Real Estate Agent
Interview more than one Agent!!
If you are buying, hire an Agent!!
If nothing else, do these things. Overall, any agent can sell your house. Just because an agent or "Team" has more signs around does not mean they are any smarter at selling. It generally means they hustle for more business than others. In fact, it could be a downfall in service if an agent has numerous listings or buyers demanding their attention. Find someone you like and think you can work with.
Don't let an agent "buy" your listing. What this means is do not go for the agent that comes in and declares that they can get a price way out of line with what the market is doing. They know that if they can get you to hire them, then they have the business and eventually the price will adjust to the market. Make sure the comparative sales are shown to you and are current and applicable to your house.
If you hire a friend or family, discuss the potential negative experiences. What if you don't like working with them after all? Discuss a "no fault" clause. If you decide to go another direction, it is nothing personal. If this is going to be a problem, find someone else. There is an agent on every corner these days.
Discuss how the agent is going to market your home and be realistic about your expectations. There is really only so much an agent can do to sell your home. They will not stand on the corner and wave signs, an Open House is more for the agent than the seller and office tours are more fluff than function. Ask about pictures, virtual tours, realtor.com enhanced listings and print advertising.
Finally, and most importantly, ask about commission. Will the agent pay any closing costs for you? Will the agent buy a home warranty for you if required? Everything is negotiable and should be addressed. If you are selling and buying within the same area, use the same agent and make sure your commissions are reduced. Do not let the agent get the full commission on both ends of the deal. It is your money and you are not asking anyone to perform brain surgery on you. People do this without an agent all of the time. If you do not ask, you will not receive!
If you are buying, hire an Agent!!
If nothing else, do these things. Overall, any agent can sell your house. Just because an agent or "Team" has more signs around does not mean they are any smarter at selling. It generally means they hustle for more business than others. In fact, it could be a downfall in service if an agent has numerous listings or buyers demanding their attention. Find someone you like and think you can work with.
Don't let an agent "buy" your listing. What this means is do not go for the agent that comes in and declares that they can get a price way out of line with what the market is doing. They know that if they can get you to hire them, then they have the business and eventually the price will adjust to the market. Make sure the comparative sales are shown to you and are current and applicable to your house.
If you hire a friend or family, discuss the potential negative experiences. What if you don't like working with them after all? Discuss a "no fault" clause. If you decide to go another direction, it is nothing personal. If this is going to be a problem, find someone else. There is an agent on every corner these days.
Discuss how the agent is going to market your home and be realistic about your expectations. There is really only so much an agent can do to sell your home. They will not stand on the corner and wave signs, an Open House is more for the agent than the seller and office tours are more fluff than function. Ask about pictures, virtual tours, realtor.com enhanced listings and print advertising.
Finally, and most importantly, ask about commission. Will the agent pay any closing costs for you? Will the agent buy a home warranty for you if required? Everything is negotiable and should be addressed. If you are selling and buying within the same area, use the same agent and make sure your commissions are reduced. Do not let the agent get the full commission on both ends of the deal. It is your money and you are not asking anyone to perform brain surgery on you. People do this without an agent all of the time. If you do not ask, you will not receive!
posted by Terry at 9:11 PM
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