The tricky world of real estate comes with a lot of hidden wires, laws, fees, and more. It can be difficult to traverse this territory at whatever stage, and if you're looking to buy or sell a home, finding the right real estate agent can make or break the process for you. Here are some questions to ask when looking for a potential real estate agent.
1. Communication
Asking how a real estate agent prefers to communicate is important; like most dynamics, communication is the most important component. Make sure the way your real estate agent communicates, whether through text, via phone, or email, or even in person, is preferred to the way you communicate. Asking others who have worked with them in the past is a great way to assess whether or not the real estate agent will be accessible, responsive, and timely.
It's also important to know who your main point of contact will be -- some agents have a team they work with, and you are likely to work with one particular agent most of the time. Find out who this person is and if you have rapport.
2. References
Asking for references for an agent is an important step in finding the right agent. A good agent with solid experience will have a lot of clientele to pull from, with years of good experience and repeat clients. The more repeat business a real estate agent has, the more likely they do a good job at satisfying their customers', and eventually your needs.
3. Experience
Finding out how long an agent has been in the business will be a good indicator for solid performance in regards to buying or selling your home. An experienced agent will have seen the trends of the real estate market over decades, and will be able to help guide your decisions over purchases or selling costs. There is also a huge difference between a part-time agent and a full-time agent, in regards to knowledge, service, and commitment.
4. Location Location Location
This is super important: location specialty of an agent -- where they are located, which neighborhoods they are familiar with, and how long they have worked in the region. You wouldn't think of it at first, necessarily, but having a real estate agent who is familiar with the ebb and flow of specific neighborhoods and regions is very important for a long-term investment.
5. Cost
Knowing up front what something will cost you -- either to buy or to sell -- and the rate at which the agent is paid -- are all very essential components when buying or selling a home. Having an agent who is upfront about cost is something you should definitely look for, or ask when the opportunity arises. A good agent will be fairly accurate about the end all cost, especially if they are experienced.
In the end, finding a good agent may take a bit of time, but trust your gut, find someone who is upfront and honest with you, not someone trying to sell YOU on anything.