How to Choose the Right Real Estate Agent When Buying a Home

So how do you choose the right real estate agent for you? Here are a few helpful hints:
- Interview potential Realtors from different agencies and consider their qualifications. How competent are they? How compatible are you together? There’s no underestimating the importance of both when choosing a real estate agent.
- Do they know the neighborhood? Is the agent familiar with the housing market and values in the cities and communities you’re looking to buy in? Agents with a history of transactions in neighborhoods that interest you will know what’s available and in what price range.
- Keep in mind when choosing a real estate agent that he or she has access to a powerful tool -- the Multiple Listing Service (MLS), the inventory of all active, pending and sold homes by region. A skilled agent can use the MLS, plus their own experience, to locate homes in neighborhoods matching your property wish list -- such as a certain school system, ample shopping and dinning or convinient access to your place of employment.
- What level of customer care will you receive? A real estate agent is your business partner in a huge financial undertaking, so you’ll want to choose a real estate agent who is always ready, willing and available. Be sure that communication stays open and phone calls are returned.
Choosing the right Realtor for you can be one of the most important steps in the home buying process. Start your home search by ensuring that you have the best real estate representation for your needs. A good agent will keep your best interests in mind throughout the process, making the home search a smooth and enjoyable experience.
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