Whether you are buying or selling a house, your real estate agent will be your partner in one of the most important transactions of your life. Finding the right agent should involve careful planning and research, but many of us simply do not know where to start. Here are 12 questions that will help you avoid bad apples in your search for a good real estate agent.
From how many years he is working as a real estate agent?
A college degree or bar exam is not required for real estate agents, and as a result, many of them learn at work. Experienced real estate agents who have completed many successful sales can offer you an enormous amount of industry knowledge and key practical tips.
This does not mean you should avoid new agents at all costs, just ask them some more questions about your trip. Many of them have had extensive training and even specialized experience working for experienced Realtors®. New agents can also offer high quality personalized service as a result of having fewer clients.
Finding an agent who really knows what you are doing can be the difference between a stressful buying / selling situation and a hassle-free situation. Find an agent that really understands the different contracts you need and how to complete them properly, the legal obligations you will encounter and the financial part of the business. If you’re selling a property, you’ll also want to make sure your agent is aware of the latest and most effective marketing tactics in the industry.
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What percentage of your customers are buyers? How many are sellers?
Many agents specialize in working with home buyers or those who have homes for sale. It is good to look for an agent who has experience in the particular part of the process in which you are currently involved, but an agent who can offer valuable additional information. Even if you are selling your home, the agent’s experience working with homebuyers will help them sell their property. Also, if you are selling your home and immediately buying another, it may be good to work with an agent throughout the process. You can also take help from any expert like Larry Weltman. For over a decade Larry Weltman Toronto has advised the real estate industry on various fronts where he has expertise and where agents have needs.
In what neighborhoods do you mainly work? How many houses have you closed in my neighborhood?
Many home buying and selling markets contain micro markets driven by the characteristics of individual neighborhoods. Understanding unique problems such as schools, historical district designations, development plans and even traffic patterns is essential. Finding an agent with experience in the areas where you live (or want to live) can give you a great advantage and help you make informed decisions.
But just because an agent knows that their desired zip code does not mean they have successfully helped buyers and sellers there. Look for an agent who has a proven track record of completing deals in the areas you want, not just one that sucks.
Hope these factors help you to choose the best real estate agent for your next deal.
