When it comes to buying a home, one of the most important steps you can take is choosing a knowledgeable, professional REALTOR®. From the first meeting to signing your closing papers, here are some questions you should be asking your agent.
Selecting a licensed REALTOR® is one way to be certain that your agent is held to the highest industry standards. Don’t be afraid to ask about their work experience, whether they are full or part time, the types of properties they specialize in, and whether they have any references you can call.
Many home buyers feel uncomfortable asking about fees right up front, but it’s important to have as much information as possible from the start. In real estate, almost all fees are negotiable, so don’t hesitate to discuss fees with your REALTOR®. Keep in mind that, as with most professionals, you get what you pay for and great agents are well worth their fees.
How would you prefer your REALTOR™ to contact you about potential properties? How quickly will he or she respond to phone calls, texts, or emails? Establish your expectations to avoid any confusion or disappointment in the future.
To give you a better idea of how your agent works, talk to him or her about the process. How will he select the homes you will be shown? How does he balance multiple clients? What will happen if there are several offers on a home? How many homes can you expect to see?
It’s imperative that you have a clear understanding of how the home buying process works and how long it may take to find your ideal property.
Once you’ve found a property (or two) you are considering, sit down with your REALTOR® to discuss it in detail.
Finding out how motivated the seller is, how many others have viewed the home, how quickly you can close, and the comparable market values in the neighborhood will help you decide how to move forward. Your REALTOR® will be able to advise you along the way.
Remember, your agent has your best interests in mind. If you feel that you still don’t have all the information, simply ask! Let your REALTOR® put your mind at ease by filling in all the blanks for you.
While home buying can seem like a tedious task, a qualified, professional REALTOR® can make the process simple and enjoyable.
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