6 Things to Look for in a Real Estate Agent


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Buying and selling real estate is a serious venture. Whether you’re buying your first home, buying rental property, or just moving again, you want to get it right every time. Real estate agents are the best way to make sure your experience is a smooth one, but how do you know where to look for the right agent?

You can start by asking around for recommendations in your area. People who have been through the process before may know someone who did a great job, and you may want to check out that lead. But don’t choose an agent just because someone else liked them. Here are some important qualities to look for before you make your decision.

Time Commitment
Find out what their work load is like, how they expect to communicate, and whether they are equipped to handle your unique situation. A real estate agent who is overloaded or unable to commit will not be able to deliver the results you need.

Market Knowledge
Make sure your agent is licensed and works full time as a real estate agent. If they’re full time, they will have a more in depth knowledge of the current market environment. An agent who knows the schools and neighborhoods and knows available financing options is a real asset to you.

Dedication and Passion
This goes without saying, but a passionate realtor is a great realtor. Someone who loves finding the perfect home for each buyer is someone you want working for you.

References
Don’t be afraid to ask for references from a prospective realtor. Recent clients can give you the best idea of what to expect from this person. You might even try to track down older clients to see how long they’ve stayed in the home they chose, and how well it worked for them in the long run.

Gets To Know You
A good agent or realtor will want to know your plans and goals and make sure your new home works around that. They will want ensure that your home will grow with you and your changing needs for years to come.

Creativity
A great agent will understand that money isn’t the answer to everything. They can come up with creative buying options to satisfy both buyer and seller, and make everyone feel like they came out a winner.