Choosing a Realtor to Help with Your Home Purchase

There are some misconceptions about Realtors.  Some people think that they are a waste of money and that they add to the cost of buying or selling a home.  The first thing to consider is that if you are buying a home the fees charged buy the agent will be paid by the seller.  In addition, if you are a buyer you will need the help of a Realtor in order to get the best home for your money located in the best area of town.  They will also be aware of all laws that pertain to buying and selling a home in their area and these rules can vary widely from one area to the next.  They will be able to spot any discrepancies in the paperwork before you sign anything. 

When you are choosing an Realtor, make sure to get referrals from friends and family.  Or try Googling agents in the area you are looking and interview several of them. This is a great way to find a good agent.  When you are talking to the agent, ask many questions about fees and what type of experience they have.  You have agents that specialize in buying and ones that specialize in selling and then there are those that do both.  You want an agent that is well versed in your needs whether you are buying or selling.  If you are buying and are looking to buy with no money down, make sure your agent is familiar with this type of purchase.  Another good way to find a great agent is through lender referrals.  If you have chosen a lender then ask them about good real estate agents.

Other qualities that you will want to look for in an agent are if you get along with them.  If you cannot get along with an agent or if they rub you the wrong way in the least move onto the next one.  Are they good listeners?  If an agent cannot listen to you, how are they going to know what you want in a home?  If they do not know what you want in a home how are they going to find your dream home.  If an agent does not fit any of these criteria, it will be best to keep looking or you may have a bad home buying experience.  This may lead to you not getting the home that you want.  You need to be able to get along with your agent because you could have a lengthy relationship depending on how long it takes to locate a house that you want in the price range that you need.