Buying A Home? Choose Your Realtor Carefully!
When it comes to having a realtor you want to have the best, someone who really knows what they are talking about. These days with mailers, letters and cards filling up your mailbox it can be hard to determine who is really worth choosing and who is not.
The key is to take the time to learn as much as you can about anyone you are thinking of choosing before you sign on the dotted line.
Here are the top 5 ways that you can get the info you need in order to make the best decision for your family and your home:
Look up licensing
Each state has its own boards that license and keep real estate agents in line. You should always be sure to follow up with your state’s regulatory body to double check that the realtor you are considering is in fact licensed. You will also be able to see if there have been any disciplinary action or complaints.
Credentials count
Many realtors have specialties that have required special training. If you see a bunch of letters after their name on their card, chances are good they have some specialized training:
- CRS (Certified Residential Specialist):Has been trained to handle residential real estate.
- ABR (Accredited Buyer’s Representative):Has been trained in representing buyers in transactions.
- SRES (Seniors Real Estate Specialist):Has been trained to help older buyers 50+.
Pay attention to the way realtor is spelled as well. If it has a capital R that means the Realtor is a member of NAR – National Association of Realtors.
Awards can matter
This is especially true of peer-given awards. Realtors know what makes a good one and they aren’t going to be handing their awards out to those who aren’t great at what they do.
How long has he or she been in business?
Ideally, you want to choose a realtor who has been in business for at least 5 years. If it has been less than that they are still learning the ropes of the business and you want the pros.
To find out how long the realtor has been working at this job, you can simply ask him or her or you can turn to the licensing authority.
Check out current online listings
The Internet has made everything easier and learning about your realtor is no different. Be sure to check out your potential realtors listings online, as this will show you the areas they are familiar with and the amount of money they are able to get for homes.
You will also be able to see how long their listings are sitting on the market. This is important because it could be an indication that they don’t know the market well enough to price to sell and when you are buying a home, you want to know you are paying a fair price for it.
The next time you are looking to buy a home be sure to put a lot of thought into the realtor you choose. You will be glad you did.