The right real estate agent can make all the difference when buying or selling a home. They can help you navigate the complex process and find the best deal. However, not all agents are created equal. Some are better suited for specific types of property transactions than others. Moreover, the needs of first-time homebuyers are often different from those of repeat buyers or those looking to downsize. This is why it’s important to do your homework when searching for an agent, according to this article from Zillow.
Start your search by asking your friends and family for recommendations. Chances are, they’ll be able to point you in the direction of an agent with whom they have had a great experience. You can also check out your local listings and visit open houses in your neighborhood. This will give you a good sense of an agent’s working style. You can even ask your prospective agent for references from previous clients. Most will happily provide these without hesitation.
If you’re looking to buy a home, you’ll want to focus on finding an agent with experience in the price range and neighborhoods that match your criteria. You’ll also want to know how long they have been in the business, whether they are fulltime or part-time and what their commission fees are. You should also ask them to provide you with a list of recent home sales and how long it typically takes them to close on a transaction. Also read https://www.pinnaclerealestatebuyers.com/
In addition, it’s worth checking out your prospective agent’s online reviews. You can do this by searching for the agent’s name on a website like Facebook, as well as other websites that offer transparent ratings. Just be sure to read the reviews carefully, as some sites may curate reviews and only post positive ones.
As for selling your home, it’s a good idea to search for an agent who works at a reputable brokerage and has a solid track record. You can also check with your local real estate association to see if they have any recommended agents. You might also want to ask around and see if any of your neighbors or coworkers have worked with an agent who they would recommend.
Once you’ve narrowed down your options, set up interviews with the agents that you think are a good fit. If possible, try to meet them in person rather than over the phone or email. Doing so can help you get a feel for how they work and how comfortable you might be with them as your broker.