Choosing the Best Realtor as a First Time Home Buyer

By Lonnie Steinhoff

Many first time homeowners are intimidated by the entire home buying process and may turn to a real estate agent to answer all of their questions. While a real estate professional can be a valuable resource for your home buying needs, they shouldn't be the only resource you count on.

The book, "100 Questions Every First-Time Home Buyer Should Ask" by Ilyce Glick, recommends that prospective home buyers should study the neighborhood by do online research and to make the time to interview several realtors to find themselves the best match. There are numerous new homeowners have used this strategy to their advantage.

You can actually screen out real estate agents to find out which one will service your needs the best. Here is a list of pertinent questions that you can ask to help you decide who to choose:

1. How many years have you been selling real estate in this neighborhood? Find out how well-established the real estate agent is in your prospective neighborhood so you can be confident that they can show you all the benefits and the drawbacks.

2. What is the average price of homes that their clients buy and sell? Make sure you are working with a real estate agent who is comfortable with your budget range and won't try to sell you a premium or luxury home if you're not ready for it.

3. How many clients do you have on the average? The answer that is given will be significant because this is the way to know how much time the real estate agent can devote to your needs.

4. Do you work with an assistant? The relationship between a buyer and a real estate agent is allowed to flow only by proper communication and it is necessary to know if you be directly speaking with the agent or coursing all your concerns through an assistant. Knowing this will also help make you aware of how the procedure of communicating with the agent will be.

5. What percentage of your business is with first time home buyers? If you know how frequently the agent deals with people who have the similar requirements as you have, it will be an indicator as to their experience, and this can help you make up your mind.

6. How many years have you been with the company? A well-established realtor or agent who can show a strong track record of success with a certain company may be a better match for you than someone who has moved around a lot or has only recently jumped into the business. Don't be afraid to ask for references from a supervisor to find out if the agent has the experience and skills you need.

Finding the best real estate agent for your home buying experience can take time, so it is in your best interests to review several qualified agents in your area before making the final decision. Real estate agents can offer many insights and guidance about your prospective home and neighborhood, and you will need a reliable and experienced professional to help you find your dream home. - 31385

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