When buying or selling a house, you’ll likely reach out to a professional REALTOR®. But how do you choose the right one? You’ll potentially be working together for several months, so the selection process needs to be a balance of credentials and chemistry. Here are some tips when searching for your perfect REALTOR® match.

Understand the Terminology

When you begin the search, you’ll quickly notice a few different titles: REALTOR® or real estate agent. While people often use these terms interchangeably, they are quite different.  
A real estate agent is anyone who has earned a license to sell property, which typically entails taking a minimum number of classes and passing a state exam. However, a REALTOR® is an agent or broker who is a member of the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) and adheres to the organization’s strict code of ethics, which is an important distinction for many buyers and sellers.

Get Several Recommendations

Start your search by asking friends, family, and neighbors for referrals. Word-of-mouth recommendations are often the best and most reliable way to find a trusted REALTOR®. But, keep in mind that even if a friend had a good experience, it doesn’t necessarily mean their REALTOR® will be a good fit for your needs.

Once you have a few names, use the internet to your advantage and do some research. Visit the REALTORS®’ websites and social media pages and check out their reviews.

Most importantly, when we’re talking about an investment as large as a home, don’t go with the first name you find. According to NAR, two-thirds of first-time buyers contacted only one agent before moving forward, but many experts suggest interviewing at least three REALTORS® before deciding.

Ask the Right Questions

During your initial face-to-face meetings or phone calls, arm yourself with questions that will really help gauge if the person is a good fit for you.

It’s highly recommended to ask potential candidates how long they’ve been in the real estate industry. But REALTOR® Amy Jackson with Coldwell Banker Hubbell BriarWood says a REALTOR®’s passion and drive are sometimes more important than their years of experience.

“Ask about their commitment to the craft,” she said. “Are they involved in their associations and brokerages? Is real estate a hobby for them or is it their career? If they’re a newer agent, are they being guided or mentored? If they’re a seasoned professional, are they still fully invested, or will you get lost in the shuffle?”

In addition to these important questions, buyers may want to ask potential agents how many clients they are actively working with. Do they work alone or as part of a team? How well do they know the area and your target neighborhood? Sellers may want to ask candidates how many homes they sold in the last year and in what price range. On average, how close to the asking price is the final sale price on homes they’ve sold?

Discuss Communication

A lot of failed REALTOR®/client relationships come down to one thing…communication. If you are unhappy with the REALTOR®’s responsiveness during the initial decision-making process, this could be a red flag.

A professional agent should be accessible and clearly communicate with you on a regular basis. As the client, set expectations up front for how you want to communicate. If you’re a seller, make sure you ask for detailed information about how your home will be marketed, and if you’re a buyer, ask about how often you will receive new listings. Remember, the REALTOR® needs to communicate with you, but to ensure a successful relationship, you also need to communicate your needs and expectations to them.

It is also a good idea to establish expectations for type of communication. Are you the type of person who needs a phone call? Or do you prefer to connect via texting? 

Talk About Schedules

“We aren’t in a typical business hour industry, so you want a REALTOR® who will be available to you and to the lenders,” said Jackson. “Find out what their schedule is like, and if they have vacations planned. Will they be accommodating to your schedule?”

Once you ask the right questions and set expectations, it really comes down to selecting a REALTOR® you feel comfortable with. Buying or selling a home can be a stressful and emotional process, and you need someone who will have your back.

To sum this up, Jackson references a quote from Douglas Adams that reads: “To give real service, you must add something that cannot be bought or measured with money, and that is sincerity and integrity.”

“It’s not only about credentials and awards,” she said. “You never want to be sold by your REALTOR®. You want a genuine connection and you need to feel confident they will handle your transaction with integrity and look out for your best interests.”

 

2/11/22