What to Look for in a Real Estate Agent

If you’re buying or selling, a good agent will:

• Have the appropriate credentials, such as certifications and degrees, and he/she should be able to give you references. And you should check them.
• Refer you to reputable mortgage lenders, home inspectors, general contractors, appraisers, and other professionals that you will need to hire in the process of buying or selling a home.
• Be an excellent communicator and negotiator, since he’ll need to work with a lot of other people on your behalf.

• Review and explain all documents involved in the transaction.

• Use all the resources available to help you buy or sell your home, such as the MLS database, online bidding websites, property profiles, neighborhood statistics, local trends, and more.

If you’re buying, a good agent will:

• Give you an offer range based on his knowledge of the real estate market and his research of comparable homes sold recently in the same area.
• Provide market data and educate you on tax credits and government assistance programs for which you might qualify.
• Take the time to show you all the listings in your desired area, including REO properties.
• Act as a buffer between you and the seller’s agent.

• Be respectful of your time when showing you homes for sale.

If you’re selling, a good agent will:

• Give you a listing price range based on his knowledge of the real estate market and his research of comparable homes for sale in your area.
• Know your neighborhood well, especially if there’s a lot of competition in your area.
• Have an excellent marketing plan for selling your home and go over it with you (without you asking). This includes signage, internet listings (with photographs, virtual tours, etc.), lock box management, staging tips, open houses, and more.
• Act as a buffer between you and the buyer’s agent.
• Be respectful of your privacy when showing your home if you’re still living there.

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