Finding A Realtor

Finding A Good Realtor Can Be As Tricky As Finding A Good Piece Of Real Estate

Most people surveyed, after they have chosen to either buy or sell a home without the assistance of a broker, will tell you "That's the last time I go through that unassisted." Having the assistance of a savvy, informed broker to help you get the price, assess the fair market value, and protect you from the pitfalls and liabilities of property acquisition can turn a chore into a fun and rewarding experience.

Finding the right broker, however, can be as tricky as finding a good piece of real estate. Shop around and do your homework. If you are looking to purchase locally consult with friends and associates and ask them if they have can make any recommendations. Scour the yellow pages and surf the net. Many times there are local listings magazines available from associations and individual realtors, check these too.

Make appointments with the ones who appear to be successful, have good track records and reputations. During the interview process, with each realtor, try to evaluate for yourself if your first impressions were close to the mark. Do not be afraid to ask them what they will achieve for you, what their experience is, and if they can supply you with references, from four or five previous clients, so you can use them to check up on their integrity, efficiency and enthusiasm. Find out what fees they will charge, and if they seem to not be within the same ball park as the others that you have talked to, ask them what it is that sets them apart from the rest.

Ask them questions that pertain to the local market conditions, what kind of time frame they feel is realistic in regard to finding a property that will fit your budget and criteria; ask about previous sales they were a party to and what additional costs, if any, to expect. Ask them if they are a member of the local better business bureau or any realtor associations, then validate the information. Check on their license and see if they have ever been questioned in regard to their ethics or procedures.

Remember, you are employing the realtor and he will be remunerated through his commission, they work for you. You may feel a bit of discomfort about posing these questions, but it will never be as uncomfortable as getting into a situation that could have been avoided in the first place by asking them.

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