Finding the perfect home isn’t easy and requires an immense amount of effort, research and communication. So, hiring the right real estate agent is essential to making the hunt move quickly and smoothly. But as a buyer, you should not settle for an agent that simply lists homes for you and takes you on a tour of each property. To ensure your interests are protected and a successful transaction is achieved, there are six important things you must demand from your real estate agent.
1. Compliance with the Law: As the buyer, your real estate agent is responsible for facilitating the entire process, from finding the right home to making sure all closing papers and contracts meet legal requirements. Make sure your real estate agent is experienced, knowledgeable and up-to-date on all federal, state and local laws and regulations. This includes a familiarity with local building codes and zoning ordinances for potential rental properties.
2. Availability: There is a lot of paperwork involved in real estate transactions and timing is essential. When something needs to be signed or an issue needs to be addressed, time is usually of the essence. So, it’s important to have an agent who is available on short notice and when you need them. If they’re consistently slow to respond to emails or don’t answer phone calls, it’s a red flag to move on to someone else.
3. Full Understanding of Your Needs: A real estate agent should understand your deep-rooted goals, wishes, and motivations when you’re looking for a home. With clear expectations, the agent can create a comprehensive plan that is tailored to meet those needs. So, make sure that your agent is well-versed in learning your wants and needs, and can incorporate them into their plan.
4. Access to Resources: A good real estate agent should be well-connected and have access to resources to help facilitate the entire process. For example, a great real estate agent should be able to refer you to reliable mortgage lenders, lawyers and title companies who can help sort out any legal issues. They can also provide advice on local schools and neighborhoods that may be of interest to you.
5. Negotiation Skills: When buying a home, its highly likely that there will be some negotiation involved. Your real estate agent should have the skill and experience to help you make smart decisions when it comes to price and closing details. It is also their job to protect your best interests in any unresolved issues that come up during the process.
6. Commitment and Dedication: Choosing the right real estate agent is a huge decision, so you will want to make sure they are highly committed to the task. This means they should always be available to take your calls, answer all your questions, conduct diligent research and provide valuable advice. If your real estate agent is consistently inconsistent, then it’s best to find a different one who is there for you in times of need.
In conclusion, when selecting the right real estate agent, you should look for a professional who understands your needs, has access to resources, exhibits successful negotiation skills, and can meet all legal requirements. Make sure you evaluate several agents before deciding on one for the job. Asking the right questions and demanding these six things from your real estate agent will help ensure you get the best possible service on your home purchase journey.