Why would a buyer looking to buy a home need to interview a real estate agent? Because you are hiring the real estate agent to help you find and purchase a home, most likely one of the most expensive investments you may ever make. It is a good idea to know some things about your realtor who will be representing you when you purchase the home. The realtor is your advocate in the market place so you want to make sure he or she is well qualified to handle the transaction professionally, ethically and timely. To help you in your search for a great real estate agent, below are some things you should ask in your interview with them:
How long have you been a real estate agent? In the business of buying and selling real estate, there are always unexpected situations that can come up. This is why you want someone with some experience so they can help you overcome the unexpected hurdles that are sure to come up. Even though a new agent may spend loads of time with you, they may not be able to accomplish the same thing an experienced realtor could do in a fraction of the time. Experienced realtors often come with an full Rolodex of contacts and potential buyers and sellers. This could be the difference between finding the home of your dreams or settling for whats left over.
Most any realtor can find homes easily. They have access to the MLS and can drive around looking for something to fit your needs. However the greater skill is required in drafting a contract, and negotiating on your behalf. Although a college degree is not required, it helps to know the realtor is educated and has a track record of success. Many buyers are ashamed to ask questions about a potential realtor's background and education, but they should always remember that it is them that is hiring the real estate agent. It is not at all uncommon for real estate agents to answer such questions.
Another question to ask a potential real estate agent is what their strategy is for finding or selling homes? Ask to see something in writing to make sure they have a solid plan. This is important and will help you feel out your realtors level of competence. Also make sure to ask what the realtor expects from you in the process. If he says you should just sit back and do nothing, choose someone else. Buying or selling a home is a lot of work and requires the attention of both parties.
How do you negotiate the best deals for your buyers? Ask your agent if he or she will help you decide on a price to offer after you've found the home you like. The negotiation is a give and take situation between you and the seller but will your real estate agent be involved? Is your agent knowledgeable and creative enough to make the deal work?
For example, if the buyer wants the seller to pay closing costs and a home warranty, the seller may agree to pay one and deny the other. Rather than walk away from the deal, the agent can suggest that the buyer pay for the other cost by either paying cash or increasing the offer price to include that cost. There are different ways to construct a transaction but the agent needs to be knowledgeable on what can be done.
Can you please provide references? References and testimonials give you a glimpse of how your prospective realtor works. Do they have the patience to help a family or individuals make this most important purchase? Be weary of references that only say, "great job" or "John is a wonderful real estate agent". Look for references which are more specific as to what the agent did that warrants the praise. If the agent is new, ask to speak to his Broker or former employers.
How long have you been a real estate agent? In the business of buying and selling real estate, there are always unexpected situations that can come up. This is why you want someone with some experience so they can help you overcome the unexpected hurdles that are sure to come up. Even though a new agent may spend loads of time with you, they may not be able to accomplish the same thing an experienced realtor could do in a fraction of the time. Experienced realtors often come with an full Rolodex of contacts and potential buyers and sellers. This could be the difference between finding the home of your dreams or settling for whats left over.
Most any realtor can find homes easily. They have access to the MLS and can drive around looking for something to fit your needs. However the greater skill is required in drafting a contract, and negotiating on your behalf. Although a college degree is not required, it helps to know the realtor is educated and has a track record of success. Many buyers are ashamed to ask questions about a potential realtor's background and education, but they should always remember that it is them that is hiring the real estate agent. It is not at all uncommon for real estate agents to answer such questions.
Another question to ask a potential real estate agent is what their strategy is for finding or selling homes? Ask to see something in writing to make sure they have a solid plan. This is important and will help you feel out your realtors level of competence. Also make sure to ask what the realtor expects from you in the process. If he says you should just sit back and do nothing, choose someone else. Buying or selling a home is a lot of work and requires the attention of both parties.
How do you negotiate the best deals for your buyers? Ask your agent if he or she will help you decide on a price to offer after you've found the home you like. The negotiation is a give and take situation between you and the seller but will your real estate agent be involved? Is your agent knowledgeable and creative enough to make the deal work?
For example, if the buyer wants the seller to pay closing costs and a home warranty, the seller may agree to pay one and deny the other. Rather than walk away from the deal, the agent can suggest that the buyer pay for the other cost by either paying cash or increasing the offer price to include that cost. There are different ways to construct a transaction but the agent needs to be knowledgeable on what can be done.
Can you please provide references? References and testimonials give you a glimpse of how your prospective realtor works. Do they have the patience to help a family or individuals make this most important purchase? Be weary of references that only say, "great job" or "John is a wonderful real estate agent". Look for references which are more specific as to what the agent did that warrants the praise. If the agent is new, ask to speak to his Broker or former employers.
About the Author:
Grace Ojuka is a real estate agent focusing on Provo homes for sale. She has been helping home buyers for in the Utah real estate market for over 11 years. She specializes in helping young families make the jump from renting to owning their own home particularly through provo foreclosures and short sales.
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