Buying a home is exciting! But with the wrong REALTOR®, it can also be stressful. That's why it is important to interview a few real estate agents before you decide which REALTOR® to choose to help you buy a home. When buying a home, a good real estate agent will help you determine your wish list, narrow your focus and negotiate your offer when you do find the right home.
How do you get paid? A REALTORS® commission comes from the home seller and is built into the price of a home. This means as a buyer you will not be paying a real estate agent directly for their services.
What's your schedule and availability? As a home buyer, sometimes you might need to act fast on a home. Look for a REALTOR® who promises to make a solid effort to make themselves available when needed.
How many buyers did you help find a home last year? The answer to this question will give you a good idea of experience. This isn't to say a new REALTOR® isn't a wise choice; in fact, sometimes new agents will have more time to spend with you. In this case, look for a REALTOR® who is part of a team or has a mentor.
How will you determine what homes we should look at? Generally, a real estate agent will sign you up to receive listing updates when new homes match your wish list. A good REALTOR® will also keep an eye as new listings hit the market. Look for a real estate agent who will talk about their relationship with other REALTORS® and may get a heads up on new listings coming soon.
How will we determine our offer? The answer to this question will give you insight into a REALTOR's communication and negotiation style. While there is no right way to negotiate and determine an offer, it is important your wants and needs take precedence.
"One of the things I love about working with buyers is when I sense the house we're in is 'the one' for the buyer. It's a cool feeling to be with a buyer when suddenly we stop talking about the house and start talking as if it is 'their home'. " - Darcy Nyrose
This article is part of our "How To Interview a Realtor" Blog Series.
Learn the General Questions You Should Ask Every REALTOR®
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