4 Tips To Find Your Perfect Real Estate Agent Match
According to recent data, there are just slightly under 6,000 real estate agents in the Boston area. With so many choices, how can you know which one to choose? This is the person you’ll be leaning on through each step of the home buying process and not all agents are created equal.
Here are the attributes you should look for in an agent and the four tips to find your perfect real estate agent match!
First, you’ll want someone who fulfills these traits:
- Professional
- Knowledgeable
- Dedicated
- Communicates regularly
- Will be supportive during the ups and downs of home buying
But how can you find someone that meets each of those requirements?
We’re glad you asked!
Here Are Some Tips For Finding The Right Agent:
-
Do Your Research
First, you should understand the difference between a Realtor® and a real estate agent.
Both are required to pass a state licensing exam in order to sell real estate. The biggest difference between them is that a “REALTOR® . . . is a member of the National Association of REALTORS® [and] . . . must subscribe to the REALTOR® Code of Ethics.” We’ll be using the term “real estate agent” throughout but know we also mean Realtor®s (of which the agents of Hartley Realty Group all are).
Now that you know the difference, you can better understand the information you’ll be researching. Your next step should be to check out the real estate agent’s online reviews. Follow that up by checking out their social media pages. Even better is if you know someone who has worked with the agent and you can ask them questions.
If you don’t know where to start, begin by asking your friends, coworkers, and others about a real estate agent or Realtor® they’d recommend.
No matter what, the best agents will always be the ones who are “word of mouth worthy.”
-
Choose A Specialist
Make sure the agent specializes in, or is at least knowledgeable about, what’s important to you as a buyer. The agent you choose can vary depending on the type of transaction you’re looking to make. First-time home buyers will have different needs than a buyer that’s looking for an investment property.
If you’re buying your first home, you’ll want to choose an agent that specializes in working with first time homebuyers.
If you’re in the market for a luxury property, you’ll want to choose an agent that understands these kinds of high-dollar transactions.
And if you’re looking for an investment property, you’ll want an agent that knows the specifics on ROIs in the area.
Agents will specify their areas of expertise on their websites and social media, so make sure you find one that is an expert in the type of transaction you’re looking to make.
-
Choose Someone That Knows His Or Her Market
While it may seem obvious, you want to make sure your agent needs knows the market we’re you’re looking.
If you’re seeking for a good home for your growing family, you’ll want to make sure the agent can tell you about things such as the schools for which the property is zoned and where the nearest park is located.
Knowledge of the area and what it has to offer is nearly as important as a real estate agent’s knowledge of a type of property. This is a purchase that will likely affect the next 5 or so years of your life, so you’ll want to ensure you get it right the first time.
-
Don’t Be Afraid To Interview The Agent
After you’ve researched different agents and narrowed down your list, you’ve still got one more piece of the puzzle: finding your perfect match.
Just because an agent’s credentials and experience meet your needs doesn’t mean the agent will work for you. Personality fit is equally important.
Once you’ve found an agent that you think will work, don’t be afraid to get to know that agent through an interview first. Most agents will readily accept a coffee or lunch invitation from a potential buyer.
Even if that agent comes recommended by a trusted family member or friend, it’s important to put in the work to get to know them before making a commitment.
This is, after all, one of the biggest transactions of your life! You deserve to have an agent you feel comfortable talking to and working with. The Balance has a great list of questions to help you when interviewing your agent.
Conclusion
Just to quickly review, here are the four things you should do when selecting a real estate agent:
- Do your research
- Choose a specialist
- Choose someone who knows their market
- Interview to find your best match
Ready to interview one of Hartley Realty’s Realtor®s? Reach out to us below and we’d be happy to set up a time to talk! Let’s get you into your dream home.
