How to Find a Good Real Estate Agent and the Best Partner for You

Hello, House Hunters and Sellers!
We’re so glad you’re here because we want to help you find a great realtor to partner with. We’ve put together a comprehensive guide with the help of seasoned agents to explain how to find a good real estate agent. Ready to learn how?

How to Choose a Good Real Estate Agent: The Steps

Comparing real estate agents to choose the best one involves careful research and consideration of several factors. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you make an informed decision:

1) Get Personal Recommendations:

Starting your search can be as simple as asking friends, family, and neighbors for their go-to agents. Personal referrals are often a goldmine of valuable information, offering insights into an agent’s reputation and reliability. Be sure to ask more than one person and ask for the story of the home-buying or home-selling journey. The details they provide will offer you excellent data for assessing the agent’s strengths and weaknesses.

2) Do Your Online Homework:

In addition to using Property.com’s recommended agent finder, expand your search online. Check out their websites, social media profiles, and online reviews. These can give you a sense of their track record and standing in the community.

3) Verify Their Credentials:

All real estate agents on Property.com are licensed. If you’re considering someone outside our trusted network, ensure they are licensed and in good standing. You can usually verify this with your state’s real estate regulatory authority. Don’t skip this step – it’s an essential part of ensuring you’re dealing with a legitimate professional.

4) Evaluate Their Experience and Expertise:

Find an agent who knows your specific market and property type like the back of their hand. Ask about their track record, including recent sales and average selling times. The more they know, the better they can serve you!

5) The Interview Process:

Think of this as speed dating for real estate agents. Schedule interviews with at least three different agents. This allows you to compare their personalities, communication styles, and knowledge.

Ask the Right Questions

During the interviews, don’t be shy! Ask questions like: How long have you been in the business? What’s your marketing strategy? Can you provide references from past clients? The more you ask, the better you’ll understand if they’re the right fit for you.

1. 1. How long have you been in the business?
   2. What is your marketing strategy?
   3. Can you provide references from past clients?
   4. How familiar are you with the local market?
   5. What is your commission structure?

6) Check References:

Take the time to contact the references provided by the agents. Ask about their experiences, the results, and whether they were satisfied with the service. Again, the details of their story will provide excellent insight into the strengths and weaknesses of the agent.

7) Evaluate their Communication:

Good communication is central to a successful agent-client relationship. How well does the agent listen to your needs? Are they available and responsive, especially during evenings and weekends? Re-evaluate after you’ve had the chance to tour properties with them on at least two separate occasions. If you’re selling a property, have they listened to your goals and needs? If you don’t think your agent is listening well to your top priorities, it may be best to find a new agent. Finding the right agent can save you time, and your time is money!

8) Test Their Market Knowledge:

Does the agent understand the local real estate market? Do they know about recent trends, pricing, and neighborhood specifics? The more they know, the better equipped they’ll be to find you the perfect property. Ask them to provide a market analysis of your home if you are selling and a couple of the neighborhoods you are interested in if you are buying.

9) Assess Their Negotiation Skills:

Ask about their negotiation strategy. A skilled negotiator can help you get the best deal possible, saving you money and stress.

Negotiation skills are one of the most important attributes of a real estate agent. A good negotiator can secure favorable terms and prices, ensuring you get the best deal, be it as a buyer or a seller.

To assess an agent’s negotiation skills, look for evidence of their ability to communicate effectively, their understanding of the market and property values, and their ability to strategize and problem-solve.

During your interview, consider asking the following questions to evaluate their negotiation skills:

1. 1. “Can you share an example of a challenging negotiation and how you navigated it?” This question allows the agent to showcase their experience and problem-solving abilities.
   2. “How do you ensure you’re securing the best deal for your clients?” With this question, the agent can share their strategy and demonstrate their commitment to your interests.
   3. “What is your approach when there are multiple offers on a property?” This question tests the agent’s ability to strategize under pressure and can reveal a great deal about their negotiation skills.

10) As for a Marketing Plan for Sellers

Ask for a detailed marketing plan. How will they promote your property? The more detailed their plan, the better you’ll understand and can assess their approach.

A marketing plan to sell your house should include the following:

1. 1. High-quality photos of the property
   2. An engaging property description
   3. An online listing on Property.com
   4. Open house schedules
   5. Networking with other agents
   6. Regular updates and feedback from potential buyers and other agents.

Above-and-beyond add-ons:

1. 1. Professional home staging consultation
   2. A 3-D virtual tour of your property
   3. Targeted social media advertising campaigns
   4. Drone footage to highlight the property and its surroundings from an aerial perspective.
   5. A personalized website dedicated solely to your property. This would include detailed information about the property, high-resolution images, virtual tours, and a contact form for potential buyers.

These above-and-beyond measures, while not necessary, could make your property stand out in a competitive market and potentially accelerate the selling process.

11) Know their Fees and Review Contracts:

Understand the agent’s commission structure and any additional fees. Compare this information with other agents. Make sure to review all terms of the agreement carefully before signing.

12) Compare and Negotiate:

Once you’ve gathered information from multiple agents, compare their proposals and experiences. Don’t hesitate to negotiate terms, including the commission rate and any exclusive agreements.

13) Get It In Writing:

Ensure that all agreements with the chosen agent are in writing. This includes terms, responsibilities, and timelines. This step protects both parties and ensures everyone is on the same page.

14) Trust Your Gut:

Ultimately, trust your instincts when making decisions. Choose an agent you feel comfortable with and who you believe will represent your interests effectively.

Finding the perfect real estate agent may take a little work, but with this guide and our printable checklist on How to Choose the Best Real Estate Agent for you, you’re well on your way to partnering with a professional who can help you achieve your real estate goals.

Remember that the best real estate agent for you may not necessarily be the one with the most listings or the highest commission rate. It’s about finding an agent who understands your needs, communicates well, and has a track record of success in your specific market.

Take your time, do your research, and trust your judgment when making your decision.