10 Tips for Choosing the Right Realtor
- Connection
Is it easy to have a conversation with your Realtor? You should be able to get a sense of what kind of person they are by simply asking them questions about what is important to you.
- Listen
Your Realtor should be listening to your wants and needs and showing you homes that match your home search criteria. If you ask your Realtor to find you a 2 bedroom condo downtown, they should not be showing you a 4 bedroom town home in the suburbs.
- Full time
Your Realtor should be available when you need them (within reason). For example, if problems arise during home inspections, they should be readily available to assist where needed. If you happen to find a home that you would like to view, they should be only a phone call away; especially in a market with high inventory turnover.
- Product Knowledge
A good Realtor is aware of what is currently on the market and is actively seeking to learn about new homes coming on the market. Your agent should be aware of when a home becomes available that matches your search criteria.
- Know the Neighbourhoods
It is not just about the home. Location, location, location! Where is the closest grocery store? What about shopping malls, parks, schools, local restaurants, pubs and recreational facilities? Are you paying a ‘premium’ to live in a particular area or is it up and coming? What is the level of criminal activity in the area compared to other neighbourhoods?
- Technically Competent
A good agent should be abreast of the latest technology and make the best of that knowledge to run their business more efficiently, market your home and find you a new one. Approximately 80% of all buyers begin their search online. Your Realtor should have a strong online presence and engage multiple social media web sites.
- Marketing Plan
How will your Realtor market your home? Will they use print advertising, the internet or a combination of both? Check out their website for current listings and how they are displayed. If their website is unorganized and difficult to read, then chances are your listing will not get noticed either. Google them! Their name should rank high on the search engine list.
- Service
Your agent should be a fountain of information. They should have lists of real estate professionals at their fingertips such as Mortgage Brokers, Lawyers, Home Inspectors, Electricians, etc.
- Competent
As a Buyer or a Seller, you will encounter contracts and forms. A good Realtor should be able to explain every paragraph and clause to you so you have a good understanding of what you are signing. Ask questions.
- References
Do not take your Realtor's word for it - ask for multiple references from buyers and sellers. If they do not have references, move on!
