Some people like the extra attention that a hands-on real estate
agent can provide. Others just want to be left alone as much as possible
so they can look at the houses. Since you're on this website, it a good
bet that you're in the process of educating yourself about the entire
process of home buying so that you won't need as much hand-holding as
some people. Be realistic about your time frame for buying a house and
about the amount of time you'll be able to devote to the process. Let
any prospective real estate agent know what you expect from her.
Interview your agent
Remember that this person is going to have a huge effect on your life
for at least several months. Make sure that you trust the
agent, above all else. Ask about background and training. Ask
about the area of town that you're interested in. Does the agent seem
knowledgeable? Does she ask you questions about what it is that
you want?
You want a strong agent. That is, you want someone who knows the
market well enough to advise you on any given house; you want someone
who's had experience in negotiating with sellers, and with closing; you
want someone who can steer you toward at least three excellent
settlement attorneys or building inspectors if you so desire.
Ask them to show you one house
Take a tour of the house with your broker wannabe. Has she listened
to your requests? Did you want to see a single family detached home with
two acres and are being shown condos instead? A good real estate agent
will let you know if your desires are out of whack with reality but
should also try hard to find you what you want. Is she showing you what
you like, or what she likes?
We welcome the opportunity to meet with you for
an interview, and will guarantee that you'll be comfortable with our honesty,
integrity, and our ability to sincerely listen to your needs. We
promise that we will give you the facts, good or bad, at all times.
