When buying or selling a home, real estate agents can make the process smoother
and less stressful. They help with negotiations, act as a liaison between the seller
and buyer, and fill out extensive paperwork.
However, if you hire the wrong agent or don’t work well with yours, it can be
disastrous for your home sale or purchase. So how can you tell whether an agent is
right for you?
In addition to their professional credentials, look for these qualities in
a real estate agent:
Communicate Effectively
A good real estate agent will ask the right questions and listen attentively to the
answers. They can also explain complex issues in a way that makes sense to
laypeople. For example, they can help you understand the difference between a
pending and contingent sale, or explain why it’s important to get title insurance.
Be Honest
A great real estate agent isn’t afraid to give you honest advice about a property or
the market. For instance, if a property you’re considering isn’t in the best location or
won’t hold up to long-term repairs, they’ll let you know. They can also help you set
realistic expectations by sharing local pricing information and helping you determine
if a home is overpriced.
Be Accessible
A competent real estate agent is easy to reach when you have a question or need
help. They should return your calls and emails quickly and answer any questions you
have in a timely manner. This is especially important if you’re new to the market and
have many questions. If an agent isn’t accessible, it may be a sign that they’re not
dedicated to their clients or have other priorities. Also read https://www.carolinashousebuyers.com/
Have Experience
The more experience a real estate agent has, the more likely they are to be able to
guide you through the home-buying or -selling process. It’s not enough to simply
check an agent’s license date, though; you should also ask them about their past
transactions and what they learned from those experiences.
For instance, a seasoned agent can point out things that might surprise you, such as
a hidden leak or the need for a costly repair. They can also advise you on a good
mortgage lender and connect you with one if necessary.
An experienced agent can also help you determine a fair asking price for your home,
since they know how long homes spend on the market in your area and what prices
similar properties have recently sold for. They can even offer advice on how to stage
a house for sale and create an attractive listing. Moreover, they can help you avoid
common mistakes like forgetting to disclose a problem with a property or
accidentally signing a contract with the wrong seller. They can also suggest
contractors and vendors for renovations and repairs. They can even help you find a
rental if you can’t afford to buy the home you want right away. Having the right real
estate agent can make your transaction as smooth as possible.