When you begin to think about buying a home the first thing you do is search on the internet. As you go on the web to see homes you notice names and pictures of Realtors. If you’re searching in a particular area you may notice some faces appear often. You assume they must be real experts in the area. The truth is that those Realtors pay money to be noticed by you and other buyers. They want you to contact them. They may not be the best Realtor for you!
What questions should you ask when you look for a Realtor?
- If I choose you will you be exclusively working as my representative?
- Will you be the one showing me homes or will I be working with another buyer’s agent on your team?
- Am I able to talk and text with you any time of day; how quickly do you respond?
- Can I talk with people you’ve helped in the last year?
- What do I need to know about the process of submitting an offer?
- How do you work to help me after the offer is accepted until time of closing?
Can I really Trust my Realtor to be representing my best interest at all times?
This is really the most important question to ask yourself. If you meet a Realtor from an online ad or an open house, he or she is representing the seller of the home. The Realtor may assist you regarding that home and even suggest “Dual agency”, but this is very different than having your own Realtor. If you visit a new construction development, it’s the same story! that Realtor or host is not there to represent you; they are representing the builder.
Even when you get a referral from a friend or relative you should interview the Realtor like you were hiring an employee. The partnership you form with your Realtor will be crucial during the entire process. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and judge for yourself. A real professional Realtor will welcome your questions and want to earn your trust.