Real Estate Marketing & Beyond
Whether you’re buying or selling your home, having the right real estate professional at your side as a supportive but firm friend to guide you through the process and the state of housing in your area can save you time, headache, and, ultimately, money.
It’s worth it, therefore, to invest time first in defining what you need, then researching and interviewing real estate agents until you find someone who aligns with your goals.
Of course, you can go it alone without an agent, but buying or selling with a knowledgeable pro in your corner can ensure you not only get the sweetest deal, but that the process is smooth, buttoned-up, and low on stress.
If your target market is highly competitive, working with a veteran agent can be an advantage as they’ll know the ins and outs of your neighborhood.
Similarly, if you’re looking for investment properties to flip or wholesale for profit — or for a secondary property outside your market, like a vacation home — an agent familiar with the market can be an invaluable partner.
Any real estate agent you consider should, at a minimum, be licensed and in good standing within the state(s) they practice.
A buyer’s agent represents a buyer looking to purchase a property, and a seller’s agent (sometimes called a listing agent) represents a homeowner selling their property. Depending on your side of the transaction, you’ll most likely sign a buyer’s or seller’s agreement with your chosen agent, and it’s their responsibility to represent your best interests throughout the process.
In some cases, your agent may represent both sides of a transaction, the buyer and the seller. This is called dual agency, and is legal in many U.S. states. Your agent is required to tell you if they have dual agency, and while dual agency doesn’t necessarily create a conflict of interest, you’ll need to decide if you’re comfortable with your agent representing both parties in the transaction, or if you’d prefer to work with an agent who represents only your interests.
It’s a good idea to interview at least three to four prospective agents before deciding who you’d like to work with. Start by asking the following:
Questions for Buyers:
Questions for Sellers:
To start your search for the right real estate agent, try:
Check the agent’s online reviews as well, as they may be unsolicited and provide an unvarnished opinion.
Dealing with a trained professional ensures that they will not only receive the best bargain, but that the process is also smooth, organized, and stress-free. The areas you covered in this blog and mainly the key points to find the best agents are worthy. The question I liked the most “How many clients do you typically handle at one time?” LOL! Is too good. Keep posting!