So, you're ready for the home buying process. But where should you begin?
A licensed realty professional with specific market knowledge is a great starting point. You'll discover that many agents will claim to have local expertise. GREAT! You have options. We all like options.
Knowing the market is only part of being a great agent. There are other things to take into consideration when selecting the right agent. When people ask me for recommendations, here's what I look out for:
1.) What are the special designations that an agent holds that demonstrate their ability and willingness to help? A Certified Military Sedona Real Estate For Sale Residential Specialist is a designation that I would look for if I was working on a client who is a military veteran. They will have had additional training and education and relationships with lenders that can access loan programs that directly benefit them. I look at the client's needs first, then find an agent who can best serve their interests.
2.) Is there a network of industry experts available to the agent? Are there resources that the agent has in place to help clients find the right information? The agent can provide easy access to the community, lending and home repairs services the client needs. An agent who has established the foundation for a smooth transaction means that you can be confident in their ability to help you all the way to the closing.
3.) 3.) Are they responsive to the needs of the consumer? Does the agent communicate well with their colleagues? Do they provide tangible and concrete answers to my queries? Do they only tell me what they think is best for me? You can easily only hear what you want, especially when you're excited about buying your home. Good agents will listen and ensure you are fully informed, both good and bad. Then they help you identify the good information and provide solutions to overcome any obstacles that may be in your way to success.
4.) Are past clients able to give feedback on the agency's services? Is their past business a testament to their ability and willingness to help you? Good reviews from past clients are a sign of an agent's ability and willingness to help clients. This information is invaluable to verify a potential agent’s credibility.
5.) Is the agent available to take the time to meet with you? This is crucial because each person requires a different level of commitment. If a buyer is in search of their first home, then I will refer them to an agent with the right time commitment to help them through the entire process. Effective communication is crucial as many buyers will ask the same question multiple times. It's OK. We encourage you ask questions. I want you to be able to ask questions.
It's important to partner with a professional real estate agent. You can be confident that you have chosen the right agent to do the job.
The National Association of Realtors(r), reports that 76% of homebuyers interview only one agent to help them buy a house. To ensure that you get the right agent, you should be ready to ask all the right questions. A good real estate agent can make the difference between a smooth transaction and one that is stressful, anxious, and high blood pressure. There are always issues to be aware of during the purchase or sale process. But talented agents will know how to deal with them. Agents are skilled at keeping clients in the loop, providing clear explanations and practical solutions to keep your deal on schedule to close on your terms.
The timeliness of the real-estate profession is an important pillar. You don't have to rush to hire the first person you interview. You should take the time to find a real agent to assist you in your journey to home ownership.
