Choosing the Right Real Estate Agent

.Selling your home is a complicated matter, and it is important to have the right professional in your corner. Before you put your home on the market or set an asking price, you need to interview local real estate agents and choose the one you think will do the best job. Here are a few things to think about as you interview real estate agents.

Local Expertise

There is no substitute for local expertise when selling a home. The real estate agent you choose should have extensive knowledge of the neighborhood and the surrounding area.

Ask the agents you interview how long they have lived in the area and assess their familiarity with the region. The more they know about the neighborhood where your home is located the easier it will be for them to attract would-be buyers.

Proper Licensing

Real estate agents are required to be properly licensed, but the licensing requirements vary from place to place. Research the laws in your state, and always make sure the agent holds the proper licenses and accreditations.

Experience

Even the best training cannot prepare real estate agents for every potential scenario. That is why it is so important to work with an experienced real estate agent who understands the area and the local real estate market.

Always ask potential real estate agents how long they have been in business and how many years of local experience they bring to the table. It is also a good idea to look at industry awards and accolades, since they are generally given to the best and most expert agents.

References

Asking for, and checking, references, is an essential part of the vetting process for real estate agents. Always ask the real estate agents you interview for a list of their most recent clients, and contact those clients as soon as possible.

Ask lots of questions when interviewing those former clients. Find out what they liked about working with the agent, and what they thought the agent could have done better. The honest feedback of former clients is an essential piece of information – and one you should make the most of.

The Commission Schedule

Always ask how the agents are compensated for their time and expertise, and make sure you understand all the costs of selling your house before you make a final decision.

Your choice of real estate agent will have an impact on everything from how long it takes to sell your home to how much you can get for it. The tips listed above can help you choose the best agent and get your home sale off to a great start.