You can’t live in a city of any size and not see countless signs for realtors floating around. They’re at bus stops, on the sides of buses, on billboards, in newspapers, and almost anywhere else you can imagine. The problem isn’t finding a realtor. They are pretty much everywhere. The challenge lies in finding the perfect realtor for YOU, especially when you’re buying your home.
Does Finding the Perfect Realtor Really Matter?
Some people believe that one realtor is as good as any other. The truth is, as in many professions, some realtors are “hungrier” than others. These realtors will work relentlessly to help you find the perfect home at the right price.
They aren’t interested in whether this is your first home or your fifth home. They believe their mission in life, for the moment, is to help you find the perfect home as quickly as possible — without overpaying.
What to Look for in Your Ideal Realtor
Finding the ideal realtor is about more than searching on the internet, going through local classified advertisements, or knocking on the door of a nearby real estate agency. It’s important to find a realtor that will “go to the mat” to help you get the right deal on your new home.
Here are some essential traits your realtor should have.
- Be local. Your chosen realtor should know your community well. They understand the neighborhoods, schools, and nuances of the area where you are looking to buy.
- Be experienced.Beginning realtors can be great choices on some occasions, but experienced realtors understand pitfalls and roadblocks that exist when buying homes and can help you avoid some of the painful lessons they’ve learned along the way. Learn how long they’ve been in the business, how many homes they’ve sold, and if they spend more of their time selling homes or helping buyers purchase them.
- Be available. Far too many realtors today aren’t available to show homes when you’re available to view them. You need to find a realtor that can work with your schedule.
- Be responsive.You need a real estate agent who will return your calls promptly or respond to your emails in a reasonable amount of time.
- Be successful.Ultimately, your realtor should have verifiable reviews, testimonials, or facts demonstrating their successes. Social proof that a realtor is a consummate professional can help you make the right decisions for your comfort level when choosing a realtor.
Asking Questions to Potential Realtors
Once you find a realtor who exhibits all the above traits, consider asking your realtor any questions you have. For example, these could be about home features you’re interested in or possible upgrades you’re considering, such as putting in a pool.
The more information you’re able to provide to your realtor about your desired home and future plans, the better. This can be a huge help in finding homes that you may not have considered, including homes:
- In desired school districts
- With more square footage
- With more amenities
- In attractive neighborhoods
The ideal realtor is one who can help you get your perfectly-matched home faster with fewer hoops than other realtors have you go through.
We’re Here to Help!
Buying a new house can be both a scary and wonderful opportunity to get a home you will love for a price you can afford.
Let us help you fight half the battle by preapproving you for a first mortgage. This lets you know how much house you can afford and provides credibility to offers you may make. Simply stop by any branch location or give us a call at 800.782.4899.
Each individual’s financial situation is unique and readers are encouraged to contact the Credit Union when seeking financial advice on the products and services discussed. This article is for educational purposes only; the authors assume no legal responsibility for the completeness or accuracy of the contents.