Whether you're looking to buy or sell a home, it's likely that you have some questions. Luckily, no matter where you reside, there is a skilled local agent available to help you out. Real estate agents track market trends and are in tune with the local housing scene to guarantee that you get the best deal possible on your purchase or sale. It's in your best interest to know how to find a real estate agent, whether you're in the market to buy or sell. So, read on for some expert tips to help you find the right one.
Preparing to work with an agent
Before you dive headfirst into your search for an agent, consider what steps to take first. Have you been pre-approved for a mortgage loan? Speak with a mortgage lender and complete a pre-approval application to get an idea of the budget you're working with.
If you are selling your home, prepare your house by cleaning and completing any repairs and updates as needed. Lastly, research the market. What are common listing prices in the area you're looking to buy or where you're selling?
If you are selling your home, prepare your house by cleaning and completing any repairs and updates as needed. Lastly, research the market. What are common listing prices in the area you're looking to buy or where you're selling?
Real estate agent vs. broker
Both real estate agents and brokers have completed the same training that licenses them to help people buy and sell real estate. The key difference is that real estate brokers have extra training that allows them to work independently and employ other real estate agents.
What about Realtors?
"Realtor” is a trademark title used by any professional involved in the real estate business who is a member of the National Association of Realtors (NAR). This can include agents, brokers, appraisers, and property managers.
Are they really so different? Buyer's agents vs. listing agents
Assisting in all elements of the house hunt, including representing their clients when making offers and accessing homes that are staged for showing, a buyer’s agent helps future homeowners in search of amazing properties. A listing agent (also known as a selling agent) stages a house, hosts viewings on behalf of their clients, and lists the home for sale online.
How to find a real estate agent
Ask family and friends for recommendations of professionals they enjoyed working with in recent months. You can also look on the National Association of Realtors' registry and look up some agents in your area. When you start narrowing down your list of candidates, it's time to ask the important questions.
How experienced are they?
You'll want to consider how long the agent has been in the real estate industry. However, you also want to look at their successes in selling and buying homes. An agent may be newer in their field but have an extremely high success rate, and you want a real estate agent who is good at what they do.
Will I receive support?
You may want to see if the office of the agent you're considering has assistants. While not every agent will need an assistant, assistants can be helpful in taking your calls and handling paperwork.
How much are the commission costs for this agent?
Sellers typically pay commission. How much commission your agent expects will vary from agent to agent, but the market standard has been sitting between 5 and 6 percent.
It's best to ask a few different agents how much commission they expect. By comparing a few different options, you can ensure you're getting the best deal possible.
It's best to ask a few different agents how much commission they expect. By comparing a few different options, you can ensure you're getting the best deal possible.
What do former customers say?
Your potential real estate agent can check all of your boxes, but if their past clients express dissatisfaction, that might be a red flag. Take reviews seriously, and see if you can talk to someone who has recently worked with the real estate agent you're considering.
What makes an excellent buyer's agent
Their price point goals align with yours
Look for a buyer's agent that will send you listings that you can afford comfortably. If you're receiving home recommendations from your buyer's agent that are out of your price range, it may be a sign that this isn't the best fit. A good buyer's agent will respect and work with the price range you've set.
They want to negotiate for you
A great buyer's agent won't just negotiate at your request. They'll want to get you the best possible price. Ideally, your buyer's agent is doing everything they can to get the seller to lower their price on the home.
They're upfront with you
A harsh truth is something your ideal agent isn't afraid to deliver. They'll keep your expectations realistic based on the competition in the market right now and home availability.
What makes a top-tier seller's agent
They'll market and promote your home effectively
A good seller's agent understands that when you win, they win. That means they'll help you list your home on every online marketplace, stage it well, and advertise the sale on your behalf.
They'll tell you what needs to change
Will a little love send the value of your house way up? A seller's agent will be able to tell you exactly what changes or repairs you need to make so that you can hike the asking price a bit or attract more interest.
They'll set realistic goals
Maybe the asking price on your house will start higher than you imagined, or maybe, it's time for a reality check. Either way, you can count on a seller's agent to be honest with you about what price to list your house at based on current market trends.
They'll be in the know
The seller's agent you want is highly knowledgeable about the local housing scene and has sold in your area recently. When a seller's agent is familiar with the area that you're selling in, you can be confident that your house will be listed at a competitive, accurate price that’s sure to get results.
Contact the experts today
The experts at Maven Realty Utah want to help you accomplish all your real estate plans. If you're seeking to create the life of your dreams by buying or selling a home and would like to learn more about how to find a real estate agent, contact the team today for guidance.
