If you’re looking into purchasing or investing in property, it can be easy to dive headfirst into the process. Especially if you’re using a real estate agent, it’s tempting to place all of your trust in them. They are the professionals, right?

Instead of blindly following your realtor’s lead, you should be an active participant in the purchasing process. If you’re unsure of the technicalities of the real estate world, it’s even more essential to find a reputable and knowledgeable realtor.

Here, we’ll provide you with 5 red flags to watch out for when choosing a realtor, whether you’re buying or selling a property.

1. They’re a Family Member or Friend

Even if your relative or friend is a talented realtor, it’s best to avoid working with them. They likely won’t know the specifics of your area. Someone else who works locally is more likely to get you a better deal.

Plus, working with a friend or family member can disrupt the process and cause resentment to build. Like with anything else, it’s best to keep work and personal relationships separate.

• They Don’t Know Your Area

This ties into the first sign to watch out for, but it also applies to strangers. Don’t go with a realtor who claims to be one of the top agents in your state. Choose someone who’s familiar with the city or neighborhood where the property at hand is located.

Similarly, if your agent normally deals with condos, and you’re looking to sell a house, it’s in your best interest to find someone else for the job. Find an agent that regularly deals with the property that you’re looking to buy or sell.

• They Don’t Have Credentials

A majority of real estate agents are undoubtedly charming. A big portion of their job relies on not only selling properties but also selling themselves as trustworthy individuals. They possess many charismatic traits, like the ability to operate well under stress and handle defeated or frustrated clients.

Even if your real estate agent is likable and has a magnetic personality, these aren’t reasons enough to recruit them for their help. It’s up to you to ensure they have the proper credentials.

Each state has specific requirements. For example, according to the page for the online Florida real estate course at Pro License FL, Florida requires agents and brokers to complete 14 hours of continuing education every 2 years. Make sure the realtor you choose has the required licenses and renewals before working with them.

• They Are Disorganized

A good agent is a good negotiator. They handle the particulars of your transaction and leave no detail unaddressed. Your realtor should be doing everything they can to close the sale. Here are a few examples of what a good realtor should be making sure of:

• The buyer is preapproved for a mortgage.
• The issues discovered by the home inspection are solved.
• The home is free of liens before it is put on the market.

If your agent isn’t organizing the details of your transaction, consider enlisting someone new for the job.

• They Try to Do Everything Themselves

An unqualified realtor is someone who doesn’t have a good network. An experienced agent should have a number of closing attorneys, home inspectors, and lenders on their side. These experts make a transaction more likely to occur successfully.

Be an Active Participant!

It’s important to be a conscientious consumer or investor. Always go with your gut feeling. If you aren’t comfortable with your realtor or a particular practice of theirs, research their background or seek out someone new to work with. Your money and future property are at stake, so it’s best to work with someone you trust.