Buying or selling a home is probably the largest financial transaction you’ll ever make. It can also be a very emotional process. Working with the right Realtor is critical. Read on for our advice about how to choose the right Realtor.
Choose an Experienced Realtor
It’s important to work with someone who has knowledge of all aspects of the real estate process. An experienced Realtor will guide you through the process from start to finish. They’ll let you know what to expect along the way, and they’ll make sure you’re prepared. This experience not only makes things easier for you, it will help make the financial aspects of the transaction more favorable.
Your Realtor Should Have Extensive Knowledge of the Area
Obviously, it’s helpful to have a Realtor who knows the ins-and-outs of all the neighborhoods you’re considering. They can steer you toward the areas that best suit your needs and lifestyle.
But knowledge of the area goes deeper than this. An experienced Realtor in your area will understand zoning, covenants, permitting, and regulations that may impact your use of the property. They’ll also have relationships with the local service providers and government staff. This means that they can help you troubleshoot any issues you may run into. Your Realtor’s knowledge of the area and their local relationships can save you a lot of hassle, time, and money.
Your Realtor Should be Trustworthy
Buying or selling a property is a major financial transaction. It’s also a very personal process. You are going to spend a lot of time with your Realtor. Your Realtor is going to know a lot about your lifestyle and finances by the time your transaction is complete. Make sure you’re working with someone you trust to have this information and handle it appropriately.
Your Realtor Should be Part of a Great Team
Although you’ll spend most of your time working directly with your Realtor, you’ll also be relying on their team. You need a Realtor whose colleagues can step in and help out on short notice if something comes up unexpectedly.
There’s also a tremendous amount of paperwork and legal documentation involved in any real estate transaction. So it’s important to consider the support staff at your Realtor’s firm. Are they experienced, reliable, and extremely detail-oriented? Do they hold the proper licenses and certifications to process all of the documentation?
If you’re selling your home, you also want to consider the marketing support your Realtor’s team offers. What is their approach to marketing your home? What tools do they use? Do they have a strong social media and web presence? These are all important things to evaluate when selecting your Realtor.
Make Sure Your Personalities are a Good Fit
You and your Realtor are in it together for the long haul! Your Realtor needs to be someone you like spending time with and can relate to. The process is a lot easier – and a lot more fun! – if you genuinely like your Realtor.
We have a team of more than a dozen Realtors who are knowledgeable, experienced, and love their jobs! Give us a shout if you’d like to schedule some time to interview one or more of our Realtors.