When most people think about buying or selling a home, they start by finding a realtor. Buying or selling is a big step most people take only occasionally, and realtors experience these transactions on a regular basis. The right realtor has the market knowledge, support, and resources to help you find the property you want. Ask these questions to find the right agent for the job.
How Much Experience Do You Have?
There are times when it’s good to give the new guy a chance but buying or selling a home is not one of them. Real estate transactions are highly complex, and you don’t want your situation to serve as on the job training for someone just starting out. Choose an agent who has at least a few years of experience.
What Areas Do You Serve?
There’s no place on earth like the Gulf Shores area. It feels like heaven and has neighborhoods that are unique even among coastal communities. Sometimes clients relocating from other areas use realtors based close to their current locations and end up regretting that decision. Real estate valuation involves more than just comparing price per square foot. Choose an expert who regularly works in the areas that interest you.
When Are You Available?
Some real estate agents have more than one job. If they aren’t available when you want to view a property or can’t show your listing when buyers express interest, you might miss opportunities. If your property has a last-minute problem at closing and your realtor is tied up with other commitments, you might not have access to the expertise you need.
How Will We Communicate?
Do you prefer to talk on the phone, or would you rather send a text message? Do you value individuals who respond quickly to email or do you rarely even check it? Your realtor should be willing to communicate using the method you’re most comfortable using. Ask also about after-hours communication so you both understand each other’s expectations.
Kris Powell specializes in bringing clients the latest, most up-to-date information about real estate on the Alabama Gulf Coast. Whether you’re looking for beachfront property, Gulf Coast investing, or buying foreclosures, it’s easy to get in touch for all your real estate needs.
It really helped when you said that we should ask about the area of the agent before hiring them. Like you said, it would be best to get someone who handles properties in the location that you want to live in to have no regrets in the long run. I will be sharing this tip with a friend of mine because she will be buying a house in Joliet soon. She wanted to live there because it is where her other relatives are located. This will help her decide which realtor to hire. Thanks!