There are a lot of advantages to working with a real estate agent. Not only do you have someone to help you with all the paperwork and legal-ese involved with home buying or selling, but you also have someone who can do all the legwork for you to find the perfect home or the perfect buyer. However, to enjoy all those benefits, you have to find the right real estate agent for you. In today’s blog, the Wallace and Dean team is offering our tips on how to find your perfect match! We hope it’s us — to find out more, contact us today.
Do Your Research
Many people choose their real estate agent based on recommendations or referrals from friends. Whether you want to double check those recommendations or you’re starting from scratch, you should do your research on real estate agents in your area. You can explore the agent’s online presence and check out any online reviews they have to make your decision.
If you’re selling a house, one great way to get exposure to potential agents is to drive around your neighborhood to see whose names are listed on current homes on the market. You can also attend a few open houses to see how the agent interacts with potential buyers.
There are a few basics to look for when exploring potential agents. For one, they must be licensed in the state where you plan to buy or sell a home. You may also want to distinguish between real estate agents and Realtors®. Realtors are licensed real estate agents who are members of the National Association of Realtors and have committed to following a code of ethics designed to benefit you, the client.
Ask Questions
Even – or especially – if you’re inclined to go with the one real estate agent a friend referred you to, you should meet with several agents to essentially interview them for the job. A few questions to ask can include:
- What is your real estate specialty?
- What is your real estate experience?
- What kind of support or team do you work with?
- How many clients do you take on at a time?
- How are you equipped to handle my specific situation?
You should also ask for some references. If a friend or family member worked with them before, you may already have heard a good word on their behalf, but it can help solidify your decision to talk to someone who isn’t close to you and won’t feel bad about giving you an honest opinion.
One good way to gauge whether or not an agent is a good fit is to see if they ask you questions. Do they understand what you need from them? Are they prepared to help you achieve your goals? You want to work with someone who respects you and listens to you.
Set Expectations
The next step you need to take before committing to a real estate agent is discussing your goals and expectations. Some important points to highlight include:
- How you want to communicate (phone, email, text, etc.)
- How often you want updates (bi-weekly, weekly, daily, etc.)
- Your priorities (price, timeline, etc.)
The key to a good home buying or selling experience is finding a real estate agent that works well with you. If you expect to have a lot of questions, and you want fast answers, then an agent who is only willing to send you weekly updates likely isn’t the best option for you. Establishing your expectations now means you and your potential agent can enter into this agreement with eyes wide open.
During this meeting, discuss what the strategy and/or plan is moving forward. Then, get all the details of your working relationship in writing. Many people who work with a real estate agent are asked to sign a buyer’s agreement or a listing agreement, which can be a great opportunity to outline everything you have discussed and agreed upon before this moment. Your contract should include information on your agent’s commission, the length of your contract, and more.
Find Your Perfect Real Estate Agent With Wallace and Dean
If you’re looking to buy or sell a home in the Houston area, contact the Wallace and Dean team! We have more than a decade of industry experience, and we are dedicated to helping you find your home here in Houston. If you’re looking for a real estate agent, you’re interested in new construction, or you’re looking for that perfect home decor finishing touch, you can find it all with Wallace and Dean! Contact us today to get started.