How Do I Select a Real Estate Agent?
- Does the agent listen carefully to your responses and ask further questions to clarify your needs and to determine your desires?
Is the agent ACTIVELY listening to your responses or have they already “jumped ahead” to showing you homes for sale? An agent should listen intently and then ask additional questions to determine your real needs. For instance, if you have small children, the agent might ask how important it is that you have other children nearby of similar ages. A good agent should help you find a home that matches your life, not just your price range.
- Does the agent act on the information you offer?
Many agents get excited about a house or a neighborhood they like personally, rather than listening to your needs and determining the best matching homes for your specific situation. The home buying process should be about you and what you want, not about the agent, what the agent wants, or what the agent wants you to have.
- Does the agent seem to rush you or give you “sales talk” rather than service?
Some agents are pushy and more concerned about making a sale than providing you with the best possible service. A professional real agent is someone who helps you fully define your needs and then works with you to locate options in your price range, in areas that appeal to you, and with the amenities you seek.
- Did the agent provide you with a list of references, without you requesting them?
A professional real estate agent will offer you references.
