Choosing a Realtor
You are ready to buy a home! The first place to start is by finding an experienced REALTOR® to help you. The right real estate professional can guide you through the entire process and help you to find your dream home. Remember you will be spending a lot of time talking to and working with your chosen REALTOR, so make sure it is someone you really think you can work with. A REALTOR who meets your needs by providing expert advice, high professional standards, and convenience can help ensure that the process is a successful, rewarding experience.
A REALTOR can provide valuable assistance. Here are some “Key Factors” in selecting the right Real Estate Professional:
- Reputation for honesty, integrity and fairness
- High Professional standards
- A REALTOR – a member of the National Association of REALTORS
- Comprehensive marketing programs, including a strong Internet presence
- Online technologies to enhance home-selling
- Commitment to customer satisfaction
- Skilled and Knowledgeable
- Expert guidance through a complex process
- Insight about homes and communities
- Vigilance for market dynamics
- Advice on critical issues
- Support through emotional decisions
- Legwork to help complete the transaction
The following are some questions to ask the agent you are considering working with:
- Do you represent the buyer or the seller?
- Are there any fees and who pays them?
- How much time will you be able to spend with me in my home search?
- Are you a full-time REALTOR®?
- How often will you communicate with me and how can I contact you?
- Do you have access to the Multiple Listing Service in your area and surrounding areas?
- Are you able to show me all the homes listed in my price range, including those listed by other agencies?
- Are you able to e-mail me new listings immediately as they come on the market?
- Will you show me the comparative pricing and sales for any neighborhood or area that I may consider purchasing a home in?
- Can you help me with local attorneys and home inspectors?
- Once you've found the right REALTOR to represent you, they can help you complete all of the steps necessary in achieving your goal of buying your home.