Get Referrals
Ask trusted friends, family, or coworkers for realtor recommendations. Personal referrals can provide insight into an agent's knowledge, effectiveness, and ability to handle the buying or selling process smoothly.
When seeking recommendations, ask about specific experiences:
- Did the realtor navigate the house-hunting process well?
- Were they effective negotiators?
- Did they demonstrate in-depth local market knowledge?
Gather information from multiple sources to create a list of potential realtors. After compiling your list, conduct some research. Look for online reviews to complement the personal referrals. An agent with positive personal recommendations and favorable online feedback is a promising candidate.
Conduct Online Research
Expand your search online to gather more information about potential realtors. Start with their websites, looking for evidence of local expertise and professionalism. An outdated or poorly maintained site might indicate a lack of attention to current trends.
Read online reviews on platforms like Google, Yelp, or real estate-specific sites. Look for patterns in feedback rather than focusing on individual comments. Consider the realtor's social media presence, which can provide insights into their branding and engagement style.
Be aware of potential red flags, such as:
- Unresolved complaints
- Disciplinary actions available through your state's real estate commission
Combining online findings with personal referrals will help you create a well-rounded picture of potential realtors.
Interview Multiple Agents
Schedule interviews with at least three realtors from your list. Use this opportunity to assess their experience, communication style, and problem-solving abilities. Ask about their success stories and methods for handling challenging situations.
Inquire about:
- Their negotiation tactics
- How they ensure clients get the best deals
- Their use of technology
- Their proactive approach to potential issues
Remember, you're looking for a trustworthy partner in your real estate venture. Choose someone who understands your unique situation and brings experienced expertise to your decision-making process.
Check Experience and Licensure
Verify that your chosen real estate agent has an active license in your state by checking the state's real estate commission website. This official approval is crucial for their ability to assist you effectively.
Assess their experience, particularly in your area of interest. Local knowledge is valuable for understanding:
- Neighborhood characteristics
- Zoning rules
- Potential community changes
Ask about their recent deals nearby and familiarity with local amenities. Ensure the agent stays current with market trends and uses up-to-date strategies. This attention to detail will help you make informed real estate decisions.
Understand Commissions and Contracts
Discuss commissions openly, understanding that the typical 5% to 6% of the home's selling price can sometimes be negotiated. Question what services are included in their fee to ensure you're paying for value.
Examine the contract duration, which usually lasts three to six months but can be adjusted. Pay attention to specific clauses, such as exclusivity agreements, and consider the implications.
Discuss the process for ending the partnership if necessary. This proactive approach can prevent future issues and demonstrates your commitment to a mutually beneficial arrangement.
Choosing the right realtor is about finding someone who aligns with your needs and can guide you confidently through your real estate journey. Remember, a good real estate agent is somebody who dedicates enough time to treat their customers well, and they have fast responses, market knowledge, and good communication.
- Mattes D. Top agent insights on choosing a realtor. Personal interview. 2023.
- National Association of Realtors. Real Estate Agent vs. Broker vs. Realtor: What's the Difference? NAR website. 2023.
- Consumer Federation of America. How to Choose a Real Estate Agent. CFA website. 2023.
