There arealways advertisements for Real Estate and Real Estate Agents everywhere youturn. The reasonis simple: It isn't difficult to obtain your real estate license. A collegedegree is not necessary. And the potential income is very high. This means that there are many bad real estate agents outthere. Asking for a referral from someoneyou trust or a colleague is the best way to find a professional in any industryis to get one. However, this does not meanthat every person who refers you to you is a good professional. After all,everyone has a cousin, brother, aunt, uncle or cousin who are in the business.But it will increase your chances of finding a great professional.
Before you sign a listing agreement or buyer's agent,there are some questions that you should be asking your Real Agent.
1. Howlong have your business been in existence?
Anyone can decide that they want their license today andreceive it in the mail a month later. Your Real Estate Agent's experience matters. An Agent who is new to the industry will be able to quicklylearn and continue learning with each transaction. A newer Agent is not necessarily a bad choice. They willbring lots of energy and will be able to spend a lot of time with you. If you do choose to use a younger Agent, ensure they havegreat support.
2) Are youa Realtor?
Realtors are not all Real Estate Agents. The National Associationof Realtors requires that members adhere to strict codes of ethics or risklosing their membership. To be able toaccess the MLS (Multiple Listing Service), which gives Realtors access almostall homes for sale in their area, you must also be a member of NationalAssociation of Realtors.
3 Whatcertifications are you holding?
Real Estate Agents have the option to earn a variety ofadvanced certifications. It doesn't necessarily mean they are a great agent, but itdoes indicate that they are serious about their job. GRI is the most difficult certification to attain.
4 What's yourspeciality?
Real estate agents are often classified as"commercial" or "residential", which can be very different. However, even amongResidential Real Estate Agents agents, there will be agents who specialize inSellers, Buyers, and Renters. While someResidential Agents are successful in handling Buyers & Sellers they shouldalso ensure that they have many satisfied clients. Most agents started their career working with renters.
5) Is itpossible to get a list past customers?
Call a few past customers of the Agent. Ask them about theirstrengths and weaknesses, and make sure they don’t have the Agent’s last name.
6) Who's your Broker? Can I call him/her
Real Estate Agencies are shifting towards"mega-brokerage", which means that many Agents have never met theirBroker. Find out thenumber of their broker's cell phone number if an agent does not have it.
7 How manysales were you able to make last year?
An agent who is a good one will close at least 25 saleseach calendar year. It is important to ensure that your agent assists you in thebiggest purchase or sale of the year.
8 Is thisyour full time job?
It's always surprising to me how many people will lettheir colleague down the hall deal with the sale or purchase of their house. To ensure your best interests,you need someone who is able to handle real estate transactions day-to-day.
There aremany great Real Estate Agents today. However, incompetent agents really stand out. Did you know about theAgent who sold the wrong house? You shouldensure that you contact a reliable source to find your Agent and ask thesequestions.
