If you're buying or selling a home, a top-notch real estate agent canbe your biggest asset. Choose the wrong one, and you could wind up regretting it big down the road.
"Real estate has always been a mark of independence and freedom in this country," says Donald R. Brenner, professor emeritus at American University. "Owning property is very important, and when you deal with someone who is going to help you buy or sell a piece of property, you'd better find someone that knows what they're doing."
Don't embark on your buying or selling journey without an expert on your side. Our basic tips will get you on the road to finding the right agent for your needs:
- Find an agent before you begin looking at homes. People rarely buy the first house they look at, but are often stuck working with that first agent even after walking away from the deal. If you select your agent before you start looking, on the other hand, you'll know he or she understands your needs and wants and can meet your expectations.
- Ask friends and coworkers for referrals. People you know can provide a good starting point, by recommending agents who've already proved themselves. Don't make your decision based only on a recommendation, but use them to gather names.
- Choose the agency first. Choose the firm based on their local reputation (not a national reputation, as with a well-known franchise).
- Choose an agent who handles homes in your price range. Some agents specialize in high-end houses or in low-budget properties. Each of these agents may not be able to do the best job for you if you're looking for a home in another price range.
- Choose an agent who will provide other services. Their help is invaluable when it comes to arranging house inspections, finding a real estate attorney or conducting a study of the property's value.
- Choose an agent you get along with. This seems like a no-brainer, but you'd be surprised. It's important that you be able to work with your agent. Make sure he or she takes the time to explain things you don't understand, works on your time schedule, and whose personality clicks well with you.
