Embarking on a new real estate endeavor is exciting. Whether you’re buying, selling, or looking to rent, real estate can mark a new chapter of your life, whether living wise or financially.
But the big question is: can I do it alone, or do I need a real estate agent? While it may seem like a good idea to go about your endeavor alone, statistics say otherwise. Last year alone, almost 90% of individuals bought their home using a real estate broker, and 98% of buyers said that their real estate agent was extremely valuable during their home buying process. With numbers like that, who wants to go without?
But with over 2 million licensed real estate agents located in the U.S. today, finding a good real estate agent can feel nearly impossible. Luckily, we’re here to help. Using these simple tips, choosing a real estate agent will feel as free as running with the wild horses.
Tip No. 1: Phone a Friend
According to surveys, 40% of recent buyers say that they found their local real estate agents through a friend or family member. This statistic speaks miles for how important it is to get a referral that you can trust. While real estate agent reviews are available on sites such as Zillow, talking to a friend or family member about their experience with an agent can help you determine if they are right for you.
Tip No. 2: Do Your Homework
To find a good real estate agent, hit the internet. Scour real estate listings for the kind of property that you want and see which agents are behind them. This way, you’ll begin to understand which local real estate agents work with which properties.
Tip No. 3: Know Their Specialty
Many certified real estate agents get specialized training in specific areas and cater to specific clients. For example, local real estate agents with Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES) credentials help people over the age of 50 find property. If your realtor refers to themselves with a capital ‘R’, this means that they are a member of the NAR. It helps to know the credentials!
Now that you have what it takes to find a good real estate agent, feel free to run with the wild horses like they do in Corolla!