Choosing a realtor is a crucial first step in the home buying or selling process. With many different companies, brokers, and real estate agents it can be hard to distinguish between who will be the right fit for you! Here are 20 of Summit Way Realty’s most important tips on how to choose a realtor.
20 Top Tips on How to Choose a Realtor
1) Find Good Chemistry
tips for choosing a realtor
Chemistry is essential. This means you want to find someone that is willing to listen and is going to work with your situation in mind. Rather than an interrogation, the conversation should be easy-going whenever you sit with them. When the first meeting with a realtor begins, take special note of the chemistry between you and the agent.
2) Negotiation Skills are Key
Can they negotiate well? It is important to go with someone that is going to stick up for you and not fold as soon as a bit of pressure is applied. Questions to ask a realtor when selling your home include inquiring about their negotiation skills.
3) Seek Out Referrals
Look out for positive referrals in the area. This is essential when it comes to making sure you are not getting duped along the way. When following a first-time home buyer guide, it is important to ask around about different real estate agencies and realtors.
4) Focus on Strong Values
Strong values are the foundation of a good professional. The same applies to a realtor. Look for someone honest and willing to sacrifice things for their client. Simple honesty can go a long way, especially in real estate. How to pick a realtor when buying? Focus on their values and what the realtor can bring to the table.
5) Check Their Track Record in the Area
Have they been successful in the area? Do they know how to sell in the region? At the end of the day, make sure the realtor is experienced in the area you are looking for.
6) Should Be Knowledgeable
You must go with someone aware of what works and what does not. This knowledge is essential when it comes to finding a good deal. Summit Way Realty’s knowledge of the market and industry is unparalleled.
7) Positive Reviews in the Market
how to choose the best realtor
Just like with restaurants, apartments, etc., it is important to look at reviews before hiring a realtor. Summit Way Realty recommends doing your research when choosing a realtor including looking at reviews and asking friends and acquaintances about their experiences with various real estate agencies in the area.
8) Listening Skills Matter
Are they willing to listen to what you have to say? With Summit Way Realty, you will get the attention you deserve. Listening is the bare minimum of communication, and if you are wondering how to pick a realtor when buying or selling, ensure they will listen to you throughout the entire process.
9) Check Their Online Presence and Strategy
An online strategy is a must when it comes to selling a house. Choose a real estate agency that is aware of how social media marketing works along with providing other marketing strategies that are available at your fingertips.
10) Always Choose an Accredited Professional
Always choose an accredited professional. Research, asking around in the community, and interviewing different real estate agents are all tips to ensuring the professional is the real deal.
11) Account for Professional Fees
The commission is what the realtor will get paid off of the sale. Understanding how the commission is structured and all of the professional fees included in hiring an agent will help determine many other factors.
12) Go with a Supportive Realtor
A supportive realtor makes a difference. Choose a realtor who allows you to relax and is willing to listen to your situation over the long haul. Buying a home can be stressful and overwhelming. A supportive realtor will be by your side during the process.
13) How to Choose a Realtor – Passion Makes a Difference
hiring the best realtor
Passion can end up leading to a better experience. You want someone that is hunting for a good deal and is going to leave no stone unturned. You should see their passion through their plan and the way they speak to you.
14) Good Communication is Mandatory
Another essential part of working with a real estate agent is communication. Communication is essential and it starts with your initial conversation with them. Are they picking up the phone and/or responding to your emails? Consistent communication is key to finding the real estate agent that has your best interests at heart and cares.
15) Ask for a Detailed Plan
A detailed plan is a must when it comes to picking a real estate agent. When you sit down with potential realtors, inquire about their plan to find you the home of your dreams.
16) Don’t Ignore Warning Signs
Follow your gut when hiring a realtor and compare realtors in the area before deciding. Partner with someone you can put your full trust in and who does not make you second guess your decisions.
17) Know Your Needs Beforehand
What are you looking for from the realtor? Do you want to set a specific budget? Do you want to pursue a specific price point for your property?
These details are going to matter when it comes time to choose the right fit. If you do not know what you need, it can become difficult to pinpoint a quality realtor.
18) Hiring a Realtor – Don’t Only Focus on Financial Benefits
It is easy to get the realtor to woo you with just a good commission rate. This is nice, but it is only one part of the equation.
You have to go with someone that is the complete package when it comes to both the commission rate and quality.
19) Problem-Solving Skills are Essential
Problems occur whether it has to do with scheduling, negotiations, or something else. You want a realtor that is willing to handle these problems without putting the responsibility on your shoulders. This is their job, and they should do it well. How to find a realtor with excellent problem-solving skills is to ask in your first meeting with them about potential problems you could encounter and how the agent will help you handle the issue.
20) Check Their Availability
How available is the realtor? What is their schedule like? Find a realtor who will pick up their phone and work with your schedule when booking showings and meetings. Dependable agents are just a phone call away.
Final Thoughts
After taking into account the steps above on how to choose a realtor, the relationship with your realtor should be a good fit for both! At Summit Way Realty, our agents are ready to assist you in your home buying, selling, or investing needs!
