Month: February 2016

How To Choose A Realtor

There is lots to think about if you want to buy or sell a home. Yes, we can do most things online now, but it is still recommended to work with a real and good realtor. Hence, let’s take a look at a few of the things to be aware of when choosing your realtor.

Ask about to see if you know someone that can recommend a realtor. However, don’t let your decision weigh solely on their opinion. Spend some time properly researching as well. You need to make sure that your realtor is experienced in what you are interested in. If you want to purchase a condo, there is no point going to someone that specializes in luxury mansions. Next, make sure you speak first to potential realtors before you hire them. Ask anything that is relevant, such as how they will represent you, what they can do for your, what experience they have, how much they cost and so on. You also need to talk about your expectations. It is important that they understand your needs. The last thing you need to do is make sure that you actually like your realtor on a personal level. If not, you will find it hard to trust them. Lastly, try to find a realtor that has a lot of experience. Although you might want to help out someone who is just starting in the world of real estate, would you really trust them with the thousands and thousands of dollars involved in these transactions?

Don’t work with the realtor of the owners of the property you are planning to purchase. This is due to the fact that any information you give you realtor will be passed on to the seller by the realtor, as it is their legal obligation to do so. The same is true if you are looking at selling. You should be looking for a realtor that only represents your needs. Start by asking people you know whether they can refer you to a realtor. You can also contact the NAR (National Association of Realtors) in order to find a professional for you. If you work with a realtor registered with the NAR, you will know for sure that they are professional and ethical. Do make sure you speak to several before you decide which one to go with. When you speak to them, be clear on your needs so they can make suggestions. This will give you a general idea of just how familiar the agent is with prices and neighborhoods, for instance. If you want to sell your home, find out how the realtor has done in the past. What you must find out is whether they tend to sell below, on or above the asking price.

Usually, seller’s realtors will ask you sign an exclusive agreement with them. This is a common procedure but it does not mean you lose any rights. If, for instance, you feel that the representation you are receiving is not proper, you able to terminate the contract. The contract, essentially, just means that you can only work with a single realtor at the same time. If you want to buy a property, on the other hand, you don’t have to sign such a contract. However, there is a changing facing in the world and many now ask their buying clients to sign a contract as well. The final thing you must look into is how your realtor earns their living. Not all realtors are created equally. In most cases, you will find that a realtor is paid a commission on the final sale price of the property, but some work on flat fees. It is vital that you know which one of the two constructions your potential realtor uses before you decide to sign your contract with them.