Selecting a good real estate agent is never easy, especially now when the real estate market is shot to pieces by the recent recession. You need to find an agent that knows what needs to be done, how to do it, and will result in a win-win situation for both you and himself.
Which is why interviewing and grilling a real estate agent is essential to filter out the rocks from the gems. Here are a few questions to help get you started?
How long have you been in real estate?
Experience is a powerful indicator of a real estate agent’s skills, so choose an agent with at least two years of experience in the world of trading properties. Work with rookies at your own risk.
Do you specialize in buying, selling or both?
The most probable answer you are going to get is ‘both,’ but the channels for trading in buying are different from those that are selling. Less experienced but honest agents will answer one or the other, so don’t get turned off when they tell you the truth.
What areas do you cover?
Familiarity with a certain area makes selecting a good real estate agent a lot easier for both you and your agent. Purchases and sales will be made a lot easier this way.
What accreditation do you possess?
If you really want to know you are dealing with a pro, then look for a certificate from the Graduate Realtors Institute (GRI) or a license as a Certified Residential Specialist (CRS).
Whose interests do you represent?
Expect ‘yours’ to be the generic answer, but agents will inevitably gain a commission from both the buyer and seller. This will affect the rates you pay, as well as the possible motivations of the agent.
What will you do to help me buy/sell a home?
Sales strategy plays an important role in buying or selling a home, and should be one of the things to look for when selecting a good real estate agent.
What happens when I cancel?
This is an essential question to ask, as you may find yourself paying stiff penalties should you choose to cancel a trade or agreement.
Can you provide referrals of satisfied customers?
A happy customer is the best advertisement, or so the saying goes. They may be carrying a script with them, so be careful in talking with referrals and look for telltale signs of bias and embellishing.
Why are you better than other agents?
One of two finishing questions, this simple and open-ended question will show a lot about the professional qualities of a real estate agent.
How can you prove that I can trust you?
The second finishing question, this will give you an idea about the personality of your agent. Don’t take the words at face value, though. Watch the reaction, confidence and tone of voice for a more in-depth understanding of your agent.
So there you have it, a few basic but very helpful questions to consider when interviewing and selecting a good real estate agent. Ask away, and you’ll be one step closer to finding the perfect agent to work with one of the biggest investments in your life!
The Real estate market can be an enjoyable, satisfying and lucrative experience for you.
Whether you are a homeowner, a buyer, a landlord or simply a real estate enthusiast, get to know more about the latest in the real estate market now. Read more about it here:
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San Diego Realty Blog.
