How to Find the Right Real Estate Agent for You

Whether you’re selling or buying a home, you’ll need the help of a dependable agent. Here are some tips on finding the perfect match.

1. Know the difference between a Realtor and a real estate agent

   A real estate agent is an individual who has taken all the required licensing exams and real estate classes in the state where she intends to practice.But keep in mind that not all real estate agents are Realtors – the term is a registered trademark under the National Association of Realtors (NAR), whose members must abide by the organization’s code of ethics in addition to state and federal laws that all agents must comply with.

2. Look for a professional agent

   It’s worth hiring a professional agent who can help you buy or sell a home full-time. Someone who is not a licensed agent, and who is only handling transactions part-time, might not be able to do enough to protect your interests during the transaction.A licensed, full-time agent is in a better position to help you achieve your real estate goals. An agent should ideally be accessible 24/7, taking calls and responding to messages as soon as possible. They should be able to devote their time to getting your listing or offer off the ground.

3. Do interviews

   Shop around for an agent. Real estate experts suggest that you talk to at least three agents in order to find the right one. Ask prospective agents for a list of references, and ask them how they intend to help you sell and buy a home.Note their response – if they can give you a prompt and thorough answer, then it’s likely that they can provide that kind of service when you hire them.

   Experts also suggest that you pay more attention to the agent’s list of recent sales instead of their sales volume, as it is more reflective of the service they currently provide.

4. Find the right buyer’s agent

   Look for a buyer’s agent who has a proven track record of closed deals. The average agent will just look at the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) to help you find a home, but those who go above and beyond for their clients will present you with homes that have yet to be listed in the market.They’ll be more proactive with the search, contacting homeowners in your desired neighborhood or launching a mail campaign in the areas you’re interested in.

   The agent should also listen to what it is that you want in a home, and present you with listings that match your criteria to a T.

5. Find the right listing agent

   The right listing agent will do more than put up a “For sale” sign in your yard and wait for the calls to come in. Home sellers should hire a tech-savvy and proactive agent who will take full advantage of online tools and platforms.They should also produce high quality marketing collateral, since the majority of buyers start their search online. This means producing great photos and videos of your home.

Are you ready to enter the market? Call me, Jane Sullivan Horne, at 540-493-1690 or send an email to [email protected] for more information on Smith Mountain Lake homes and condos.