TIPS FOR FINDING A REAL ESTATE AGENT

everal factors should be taken into consideration when you are looking to find the right real estate agent. This will provide a better idea of the agent’s effectiveness and the convenience of working with him or her. Here are some tips on how to find the best real estate agent for your needs.

1. Location: Is it convenient to visit the real estate agency’s office when necessary? If the office is located nearby, the agent is also more likely to know about the local area and can easily answer a potential buyer’s questions about it. It is beneficial if they have a local or toll-free telephone number as well.

2. Advertising: Look through local newspapers and real estate advertising publications to find out if the agent has many homes advertised in them. How attractive or large are the advertisements, and what sort of information do they provide about each property?

3. Person: When meeting the real estate agent, do you find this person friendly, knowledgeable, helpful, and non-pressuring? This is of importance because not only will you have to work with him or her until the contract expires, but the agent will also have an impact on potential buyers’ decisions.

4. Internet: Does the real estate agency have a web site, and is it well-designed? Are appealing photographs and thorough details displayed for each home? Also check to see if you can find properties listed with the agent on Realtor.com or other sites which display properties from multiple real estate agencies.

5. Promotion: Is the agent willing to offer any special promotional features to help sell your home, such as a “Talking House” transmitter or an online “virtual tour” of your home’s interior? These methods enable potential buyers to conveniently find more information about the property without having to schedule a showing or contact the agent.

6. Commission: Although the commissions charged by real estate agents do not vary greatly, even a slight difference considerably affects the cost. 1/2 percent of a $240,000 sale price produces an increase or decrease of $1,200. You will find that some realtors are willing to negotiate on this percentage.

Additionally, try asking friends who have sold (or are trying to sell) their homes as to what real estate agents they would recommend or discourage you from using. This can provide valuable information to help you find the best realtor in your area.