Finding a the right realtor to help you through the process is so important.  Here are five tips to help you find the right professional to guide you and your family through the process.

  1. Do your research.  Take the time and do your research.  You want to look at who is available in the area where you want to purchase.  Make sure they have the experience and credentials you need.  Once you do your research on-line, narrow down your options and create a short list.
  2. Face to face.  It is so important that you meet this person.  Whether you set up a time to meet with them personally or use Skype, you need to get a feel for this person.  I suggest you start with a set list of questions that you can ask them.  This helps you to compare answers among the realtors you interviewed.  
  3. Experience, knowledge and personality.  Once you have interviewed your short list, review their experience and knowledge.  However, do not just focus on these two.  You need to look at their personality and demeanor.  You will be working with this person during a stressful time and you will need the reassurance that you will be able to get along with them.  Make sure that their personality is one that you can work with.  This is critical.
  4. Know the difference between a buyer and seller’s agent.  It is self explanatory.  A buyer’s agent represents the buyer and a seller’s agent represents the seller.  Most realtors have experience in both but some specialize or do better with one part of the transaction.  Therefore, when you are asking your questions make sure you understand the realtor’s experience in both areas.
  5. Word of caution. If you are looking to purchase as opposed to sell, sometimes you may fall in love with a property prior to finding your own realtor.  The realtor selling the property can act as both the seller and buyer’s agent.  I want to caution you about that situation.  It may seem convenient to do and the agent may be very professional about the transaction.  However, we have done this in the past and it did not go so well for us.  Therefore, before you decide to agree to this arrangement consider getting an agent to work on your behalf.  This will give you the confidence that someone is not torn between two clients and you have someone to work only on your behalf.