Whether you’re buying or selling, it’s always a good idea to ask your potential real estate agent a couple of questions first before deciding who is the best person to help you with your real estate needs.
As 2021 is underway, many people are thinking about their next move. For almost a year, they’ve been working from home, and as of now, they continue to do so. And as we move forward in coming out on the other side of this pandemic, there will likely be changes in where people ultimately decide to reside due to both their interests and needs.
While some people attempt to tackle real estate on their own, it’s best to leave things in the hands of a professional. Not only are licensed agents experienced, they know the market and will work hard for their clients.
In seeking out an agent, you’ll want to join forces with someone who is trustworthy and transparent. A good listener is another important quality in an agent. Whether you’re buying or selling, having someone who will listen to your wants, needs, and concerns, plays a big part in the overall process.
And it is a process that often takes time, which is another reason why it’s key to connect on both a professional as well as personal level. Working with an agent is like entering into a relationship; true partnership works both ways. You want to not only feel comfortable in being able to express your thoughts freely, you also want to feel heard.
Regardless of the side of the table you’re on, the whole real estate process can be overwhelming at times; having a real estate agent who can shoulder some of that stress is priceless.
Each agent has their own working style, their own personality. No two are the same and what it ultimately comes down to is finding the “right fit.” You want to feel confident when you’re signing a contract; choosing the right agent will make a world of difference in your overall experience. To help you get started, we’re compiled a few basic questions to ask potential real estate agent.
As a seller, one of the reasons for hiring a real estate agent is to retain their marketing expertise. The various marketing tools agents employ aides in gaining the most exposure with prospective buyers as well as real estates agents within the area. Inquire as to what successful sales strategies they employ. Will they help prepare your space for the best possible photos and will those be professionally taken? Do they utilize social media marketing and if so, in what way? The market is a competitive one and it’s important to know just how the agent plans to make you’re home stand out amongst the rest.
When selling your home, it’s important to know before signing a contract exactly what percentage fee the real estate broker charges. The commission fee total is dependent upon the final sale which is taken out at closing. Keep in mind that different real estate agencies may charge a different percentage and the lowest fee does not always mean its the right choice.
If you are on the buying side, it’s also a good idea to know how this works. We know agents don’t work for free so understanding where their commission comes from is always helpful.
Regardless of whether you’re selling or buying, you want to know what safety precautions are being taken during this time. For sellers, the thought of people coming in and out of your home can be stressful, so knowing ahead of time how an agent plans to ensure your safety is important.
The same goes for perspective buyers. Entering into another person’s home and potentially coming in contact with multiple individuals can be a bit unsettling for some people; knowing ahead of time the safety measures that have been put in place can ease your mind,
Whether buying or selling, it’s a good idea to find someone who has experience in the particular process you’re currently pursuing. Agents who work with both offer an additional value. Not only can they help in finding you a new home while trying to sell your current residence, they can provide you valuable assistance when transitioning from one place to another.
In popular areas, homes can fly off the market as fast as they’re listed. When you see homes you love, how quickly will the agent be able to accommodate your request? What is their schedule like and does it align with yours? Are they available to work with you full time, or only part-time? Make sure the real restate agent can accommodate your day to day needs and that your overall timeline aligns with their availability to help you get there.
You want to be sure your agent isn’t overwhelmed and he/she has the time to dedicate to providing you the time needed. For example, if you’re selling, will your agent be available on weekends to host an open house? On the buying side, what is their availability when it comes to going out to look at homes?
Whether it’s a phone call, email, or text, make sure the agent is comfortable using the communication tool that works best for you. When it comes to signing documents, do they utilize electronic signing to make the process quicker? Time is always of the essence especially in a hot real estate market. You should also make your expectations on updates clear. Buyers and sellers often become frustrated when their agent doesn’t communicate with them as often as they’d like.
One of the many challenges in buying or selling, is knowing who you can trust for help. From lenders, to inspectors, to lawyers, a good agent has a strong network of professionals that can help you. Keep in mind that while an agent can offer suggestions, they are not requirements. Buyers and sellers have the right to choose whomever they want to work with.
A good agent will ask you questions as well. They should inquire as to what your real estate goals are and be able to repeat them back to you along with an explanation as to how they’re going to help you achieve them. You want to work with an agent who understands your needs and will take all of your requests seriously.
Referrals are always a good starting point when looking to hire a real estate agent but in the end you must feel comfortable with whomever you choose. There is no magic number of questions to ask nor are there any right or wrong ones. What it eventually comes down to is chemistry and connection, trusting your gut will be the deciding factor in choosing a real estate agent.
