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Buying a house can be a daunting task, especially if it’s your first time. Even if you have purchased a property before, every home buying process is unique and involves a lot of steps. That’s why having a reliable Realtor to guide you through the process is so important. Your Realtor isn't just a salesperson, but someone who will be with you throughout the process and beyond. Choosing the right Realtor will make all the difference in your home buying experience. Here are the top questions you should ask potential Realtors before you make a decision on who to work with.
How long have you been in the industry, and are you a full time Realtor?
When it comes to real estate, experience matters. Look for a Realtor who has been in the business locally for at least five years. This means your Realtor has been through enough seasons to have a deep understanding of the local market, its trends, and has a broad network of contacts that will help you in your home buying process. This should be your Realtor’s full time job and not something they do on the side.
How many homes have you sold in the last 12 months?
The market has changed quite a bit over the past year. Look for a Realtor who has been successful getting their clients in homes in this tough market. This information can provide valuable feedback about the Realtor’s negotiation skills, and terms that buyers need to include in winning offers. If the Realtor has not worked with many buyers in the past year, they will not be as aware of strategies that work in the current market.
How many clients are you currently working with?
Don't be shy to ask how many clients potential Realtors are currently working with. This is a crucial question since you don’t want to work with a Realtor who has too many clients. On the other hand, you don’t want to work with someone who doesn't have many clients because it could be a sign they are relatively new and not yet a reputable Realtor.
What is your strategy when it comes to negotiations?
The home buying process can be quite emotional. Ensure that your potential Realtor has an adequate strategy when it comes to negotiations. In other words, will they help guide you through the process with an analytical mindset, or will they let emotions command the process? Are they equipped to help you decide what compromises to make to complete the transaction?
What is your communication style?
Communication is crucial in any business relationship, but it's especially important when it comes to real estate. Ensure that you are on the same page when it comes to communication. How does the Realtor prefer to communicate and does that work for you? Are they available to answer questions on weekends or in the evenings? Will they send you updates weekly? Make sure it works for you because the Realtor you choose will become an important part of your home buying process.
Choosing a Realtor is probably the most critical part of the home buying process. You’ll be working with this person throughout the entire experience; going through each step of the home search and purchase process. Use the above questions to ask potential Realtors and make an informed decision. Remember to choose a Realtor who is dedicated, experienced, and will work with you to help you find the perfect house that you can call home.
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