How to hire the best realtor

Thinking of listing your house? Here is how to hire a remarkable real estate agent. Make sure the REALTOR you pick is someone you would feel comfortable with representing you in your absence! Get it right the first time by following these simple tips.

Keep Your Eyes Peeled for Red Flags

Before we dive into how to find the right agent, let’s take a look at some of the simple ways to quickly identify the wrong one.

• The Part Timer – Sorry bar tenders with a real estate license on the side. Hiring a part time Realtor means you’re hiring someone who is only following the market “part of the time.”
• Friends/Family – Unless we’re talking about someone with a proven record in your neighborhood, hiring an agent just because you are buddies or relatives is a recipe for disaster. In particular, never hire anyone who’s just getting started and needs a big break. (Yes, I know it sounds cold, but selling your home is too big of a venture for playing Mr. Nice Guy.)
• The “YES” Man – Have you had a hard time finding an agent who agrees with your price? Hiring that one Realtor who says “sure” to your unsupported valuation is a quick ticket to a stale listing.
• Discount Broker – Think you’re getting a deal by hiring a Realtor who charges less commission? Think again. Buyer agents are far less likely to bring customers to see your place if they know ahead of time there’s a percentage point missing from their commission.

Experience Matters When It Comes to Listing Property

Experience counts! Find out how much they’ve got.

“How long have you been in business?” This is the first question you ought to be asking any prospective Realtor. Your second question is to ascertain which geographic area they work in and what types of properties they sell. Hiring an agent with expertise in your neighborhood is essential. Sometimes even a one block difference can mean a significant difference in price. If you’re listing rural property hire someone who focuses on rural. Selling urban? Get an urban expert.

Location, Location, Location!

You really can’t specialize too much when it comes to geography. When you interview the agent, have them show you the sales they have made in your neighborhood. The same goes for property type and price range. Your agent’s current portfolio of homes should be in the ballpark price range that you expect your house to list. Don’t take their word for it, either. Always ask for a list of all properties currently listed with that agent.

References Galore

Talk to at least two past clients prior to committing to any Realtor. Period. Don’t limit your questions to speed of sale (Days on Market), final price and negotiating abilities. Find out if the agent is a good communicator and a trustworthy, likable person – you have to worth with them and good chemistry can go a long way to making the transaction less stressful.

Double-Check Real Estate Licenses and Credentials

Check with your state’s regulatory body to confirm that an agent’s license is up to date and to see whether there have been any disciplinary actions or complaints filed against them. Depending on the type of property you’re looking to sell, confirm that your agent specializes in the right field. For example a REALTOR who specializes in luxury Real Estate as well as you neighborhood should have sales to back it up. The best credentials are experience.