A trusted real estate agent is the key to a successful home buying or selling
experience. They help buyers navigate the maze of technical, tactical and financial
questions that arise throughout the process. They also have a deep understanding of
the local market and can provide insights that aren’t available on Google. That’s why
it’s important to take time to find the right agent for you and to be proactive about
doing so.
The best place to start is with trusted referrals from friends or family members
who’ve recently purchased or sold a property in your area. In fact, Zillow research
shows that 22 percent of sellers found their agent by getting a recommendation
from a friend or relative. You can also search for agents on social media or use an
online service that matches you with vetted professionals based on your specific
criteria (like Clever Real Estate). If you decide to go with one of these options, make
sure to fully understand how they vet their agents and how they match you with an
appropriate professional. Also read https://www.sellmyhouseforcashtx.com/we-buy-houses-dallas-tx/
It’s also helpful to get a feel for the types of homes an agent works with. For
example, some specialize in working with first-time buyers while others are experts
in selling luxury properties. It’s essential to select an agent that specializes in the
type of home you want to buy or sell, and one who has a history of success in the
specific real estate market in which you’re looking.
In addition to the experience an agent has with your preferred type of property, it’s
important to consider their personality and communication style. You’ll likely be
spending a lot of time with your real estate agent, so you want to make sure they’re
a good fit for you.
You’ll also want to make sure an agent is licensed and has the qualifications
necessary to work in your market. Checking your state’s real estate commission
website is a great way to do this, but you can also use the national website Arello to
verify licenses and to see if any disciplinary action has been taken against an agent.
Finally, you’ll want to look at an agent’s online reviews and social media presence to
see what previous clients have said about their work. It’s not uncommon for agents
to receive a few negative reviews, but if an overwhelming majority of the comments
are negative, this could be a red flag.
Once you’ve narrowed down your options, it’s helpful to schedule a meeting with the
top candidates. This is an opportunity to ask more in-depth questions about their
background and work history and to see if there’s a good professional chemistry
between you.