According to statistics shared by Redfin and the National Association of Realtors in November 2022, there were more real estate agents than homes for sale at that time.
That means you’ve got your work cut out for you if you’re in the process of choosing a realtor® to help you sell or buy a home.
Working with the best realtor available can save you thousands of dollars, so it’s important to ask all the right questions from the start. These are the things you need to know when deciding on a real estate professional to work with you.
1. Can I See Your License?
Don’t assume everyone who advertises real estate services is a real estate agent. Ask to see their real estate license before you engage with them.
You should also inquire about any additional certifications they may have. There are four types of real estate agent accreditations you should know:
Realtor®
A realtor® is a real estate agent that has signed up with the National Association of Realtors (NAR). As such, they must abide by a stringent set of rules and uphold an extensive code of ethics.
According to the latest NAR membership report, there are currently 1,598,117 accredited realtors® in the USA.
Certified Residential Specialist (CRS)
Certified Residential Specialists undertake an extensive course about residential property. They’re well-trained regarding all the ins and outs involved with buying and selling these properties.
Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES)
These professionals work almost exclusively with buyers and sellers over the age of 50. They have extensive experience in satisfying the needs of these customers.
Accredited Buyer Representative (ABR)
ABRs specialize in working with buyers. They have extensive knowledge about how to find clients their ideal homes, negotiate the best prices, and assist their clients with every detail of these transactions.
2. Can You Tell Me More About Your Clients?
Experience is as important in real estate as it is in any other trade. Yet, you shouldn’t judge a prospective real estate agent on the number of years they’ve been in business.
Rather, ask how many clients they’ve helped during that time. An agent who has been in the business for decades, but only helped a few clients buy or sell a home, isn’t the right match for you.
You should also ask how many clients the real estate agent is currently working with. Having too many other clients means they won’t be able to give you the attention you’d like.
It’s also a good idea to ask if they’re a full-time or part-time real estate agent at this point. Part-time agents don’t have the time to devote themselves fully to your needs.
3. What Are Your Areas of Specialty?
It’s best to work with a real estate agent who can attend to the needs of both buyers and sellers. They’re better able to see things from both parties’ points of view, which gives them an advantage in the negotiating process.
Another thing to consider is the neighborhoods they usually work in. Ideally, you should work with an agent who’s well-versed in local knowledge about property taxes and building regulations as well as nearby amenities like schools, sports facilities, healthcare facilities, and more.
4. How Long Do You Usually Work With Your Clients?
Everyone wants a speedy resolution to their homeownership needs, but it’s rare for buyers and sellers to achieve their aims almost immediately.
That said, your real estate agent can play a major role in how long it takes to find your dream home or sell your property.
While there are many external factors to consider when buying or selling a home, the best real estate agents have the knowledge and network to satisfy your needs quicker than the rest.
If the agent consistently works with clients for six months or more, you should view this as a red flag.
5. Will I Work With You Personally or With Your Team?
Most real estate agents have a solid support team working with them. This alleviates them of mundane tasks and lets them focus more fully on the task at hand – buying or selling homes.
Make sure you understand at the outset who will deal with which aspects so you don’t feel short-changed if an assistant contacts you about something.
Real estate agents may also have a list of recommended professionals to deal with every aspect of selling or buying a home. These may include lawyers, lenders, and a host of other services.
You should never feel obligated to work with one of their recommended professionals.
6. Can You Explain Your Processes to Me?
The world of real estate is a mystery for first-time buyers and sellers. It involves several steps and extra costs along the way.
Ask the real estate agent to explain how they will go about meeting your needs and ask for clarification along the way if necessary.
You should find out more about the following aspects:
- Showings
- The offer process
- Home inspections
- Timelines from start to finish
- The closing procedure
Clear and open communication is key to a successful real estate transaction. These questions can help you gauge the agent’s communication skills and willingness to share information.
7. Do You Have Any References I Can Call?
Talking to people who have worked with a particular real estate agent before can provide valuable insights into their skills, service levels, and expertise.
It’s also a good chance to double-check some of the aspects you’ve already discussed with the real estate agent.
Look No Further When Choosing a Realtor
I am happy to answer any further questions you have about choosing a realtor and help you get the results you want as speedily as possible.
If you’re looking for an experienced and successful Montebello realtor, get in touch today, and let’s discuss your property needs.