Buying or selling a home is one of the most significant and stressful financial
decisions you will make in your life. A good real estate agent can make a big
difference in the process. The agent you choose will be your partner for a substantial
amount of time and it’s important to find an agent that fits your needs.
Getting a personal recommendation is one of the most effective ways to find a real
estate agent. Ask friends, family, coworkers and neighbors who have recently
bought or sold homes for recommendations. Make sure to get the full story – the
good, the bad and the ugly – so you can determine if they’re a fit for your personality
and situation. Also read https://www.illinoisrealestatebuyersinc.com/we-buy-houses-river-forest-il/
Once you have a list of agents with referrals, start interviewing them. Make sure to
ask about their work style, availability and communication preferences. Also, find
out if they specialize in a particular type of property or neighborhood.
If you’re a buyer, pay special attention to the agent’s knowledge of the
neighborhoods where you are considering purchasing. A good agent should be able
to tell you about the schools, crime rates and other important factors that influence
home values.
Buyers should also find out if the agent has specialized credentials, such as
certifications for working with seniors and military members or a designation for
luxury properties. Also, buyers should find out how much they charge for their
services.
For sellers, a good agent should have a clear understanding of the home-selling
process and how to position your property to sell quickly for the best price. They
should be able to explain the current market trends in your area and recommend
strategies for pricing your home. They should also be able to answer any questions
you have about the local market, including how long the average home stays on the
market.
Both buyers and sellers should find out how often the agent communicates with
clients. A good agent should be responsive to emails and text messages, so you can
reach them at your convenience. They should also be able to tell you about recent
sales in your area and give you an idea of what similar homes are selling for.
It’s important to remember that real estate agents are human and no one is perfect.
If an agent has a few negative reviews, don’t be discouraged. However, if you notice
patterns of behavior that raise red flags, such as being difficult to work with or not
communicating well, it’s probably best to keep looking. You want an agent who will
be your best advocate when it comes to negotiations and closing a deal. You should
never have to wait more than a few days for an agent to return your phone call or
respond to a text. The last thing you want is an agent who gives you false
expectations or unrealistic goals about the sale of your home.
