Buying or selling a home is one of the most significant investments you will make in life. Choosing the right real estate agent to advocate for you in the home buying or selling process is an important decision. Because it’s not just about finding someone who knows the area, an all-star agent will help you navigate all aspects of the real estate process. There are so many variables to consider when choosing an agent, so to help you narrow your search, keep this agent checklist top of mind.
Consider what’s important to you
When it comes to real estate, everyone will go into the home buying or selling process with varying needs and expectations. Before jumping into this process, brainstorm a list of qualities you’re looking for in a real estate agent. A good place to start is with your preferred method of communication. Would you rather text, check in on the phone, or touch base via email? Would you like your agent to respond to your messages and questions within a specific timeframe, or are you more flexible? Communicate your expectations with your prospective agent in advance to gauge if it’s a right fit.
Seek referrals from friends and family
Trusted referrals from your network can help you connect with the right real estate agent. When you have a seemingly endless number of options in front of you, it’s comforting to have a trusted source to point you in the right direction. However, use caution with referrals from your personal network. Your friends and family may live under different financial circumstances, desire to live in different neighborhoods, and will almost certainly have other priorities when buying a home. An agent who was perfect for your friend might not be the best fit for you.
Get referrals from homeowners who share your lifestyle
In addition to asking for referrals from your personal network, try to source referrals from people who share similar lifestyles, backgrounds, interests, and other dynamics with you. It’s worth it to go the extra mile to find out where people like you go for their real estate agent needs.
Choose an agent with local market knowledge
Your real estate agent should be able to field your questions about the local market with ease and confidence. Can they offer a comprehensive breakdown of the different neighborhoods in your desired location? How are the local schools rated? How much are the homes listing and selling for in the area on average? Armed with local knowledge, your real estate agent will be able to recommend the best price to buy or sell in your area, which will help you make informed decisions.
Pick a tech-savvy realtor
Good agents leverage tech to achieve the best results for their clients. Most buyers like to start their home search online, so check out your agent’s listings on the MLS. Your agent should also have an active social media presence. Are they leveraging their social handles for marketing themselves and their clients’ properties? Does your agent provide more than one way to get in touch with them quickly? Do they use programs to enable electronic signature of documents? Not only will these tools and systems streamline the buying and selling process, but it also shows your agent is up to date on the current industry trends and advancements.
Go with your gut
When in doubt, choose to partner with an agent you inherently trust and will feel comfortable with if things get a little messy. Sometimes, your decision will come down to chemistry. If you’re not vibing with an agent, don’t go with them. Plenty of other real estate agents will be happy to help you and will be a better fit.
When you’re looking at real estate agents, you want to partner with a motivated, experienced, and recommended real estate professional who is ready to work for you. These qualifications are what RE/MAX real estate professionals bring to the table at every transaction. If you’re looking to buy or sell in your neck of the woods, contact your local RE/MAX office today to get started!
