TIPS FOR CHOOSING A GOOD REAL ESTATE BROKER
Whether you’re looking to sell your currently owned home or acquire new property, the venture of real estate purchase is not something you should take lightly. Looking for the right real estate broker might prove to be a tedious task – many agents and brokers advertise themselves through online ads, direct-mail postcards, or even yard signs, so it may seem that there simply is no way to size up the record and potential of your prospective broker. Because of this, many people make the obvious mistake of basing their choice on the fees that the broker is charging for their services. The real estate broker in laguna hills will assist you get the best deal as far as real estate is concerned. While this sometimes can be indicative of the broker’s potential, there are many more factors and tips you can – and should – consider when picking a good real estate broker.
General information
Useful Guidelines
Talk to recent clients. According to Ron Phipps, past president of the National Association of Realtors, it might be very helpful to ask the broker to provide a list of what they’ve sold in the past year, along with contract information. It might be polite to ask whether there is someone on the list who would be especially pleased or especially disappointed with their services. You can then contact these clients and listen to their experiences.
Select someone with the right credentials
Just like doctors or other experts, real estate brokers have different specializations as well. Seeing, for example, the letters CRS (Certified Residential Specialist) or ABR (Accredited Buyer’s Representative) after your broker’s name might provide insight into their particular proficiencies and strengths.
Look locally. If you’re selling, the broker you choose will be the representative of you and your real property, and should be able to assess its value better if he or she happens to know the local scene. If you’re buying, you’d still want to be advised by someone who is at the very least familiar with the pros and cons of your potential future neighborhood.
What to Avoid
Agents who do real estate on the side or part time. If you’re selling, you want someone who’ll be available to show your home to potential buyers at all times; if you’re buying, you need a broker who follows the market actively and can always instantly provide with fresh listings.
Agents who are unfamiliar with properties in your neighborhood. Don’t be afraid to ask about the price of the house for sale next door. If they can’t provide at least a few basic details about local properties, it is obvious that they are unfamiliar with the market.
General Tips
Aside from the tips listed above, there are always a few reasonable, simple steps you can and should take before choosing your broker. For example, research for how long the broker has been in the business. Look at how the agent interacts with you. Pick someone who is helpful and open to communication, and don’t be afraid to ask questions.