A few years ago, the real estate business faced a major flop. However, today, with the economy improving, the real estate business is on its way to recovery. New homes are popping up every now and then with people, especially young professionals, hoping to start a family and have a progressive life. Choosing a home is already a major challenge since you will be facing various problems pertaining to finances, logistics, location and of course, mortgages. Getting professional help is a must, considering that only the people who know everything about real estate are people who made it their profession. Laws and contract terms vary per state, so it is important to avail the services of a real estate agent. However, before you hire one, what are the things and qualities that you must look for?
Their former clients. Looking for a home also means looking for the corresponding real estate agent. Once you do so, ask them to provide a list of the homes they have sold, as well as the contact details of the persons who bought them. Try to ask the former clients if their experience with the particular agent was pleasant. Was he professional? Was he pushy? By talking with them, you would know what the agent is like and how he is when dealing with clients. Recommendations are a good place to start off, but don’t ever feel pressured to use them. Also remember, don’t settle with a particular home and an agent just because they are the first in line to impress you; you never buy clothes on the first rack.
Licenses. Every real estate agent may have their own licenses and certification with them, but it may not be a guarantee that their papers are the real thing, so it is essential that you check with the regulatory board of real estate agents in the area. There may be state or city licenses, so be sure to consult with the proper officials first. If you do so, you will also be able to see if the particular agent made offenses or had a disciplinary action imposed on them.
Sign a contract. Once you have hired an agent, make sure that both of you sign a contract assuring that he will have your best interests in mind. If there is no contract however, the agent will only be a facilitator and will only have the seller’s best interests.
An experienced agent. An agent that has been practicing his expertise for quite a long time should be prioritized over a novice. Also try to see if he has been working in the same area or city for quite some time. If he has, then surely he would know the best deals, legal processes and the houses in the area. It would not really hurt to hire a novice agent, but try to make sure that he is under the supervision of a veteran. Remember, you would only want the best professionals handling your business deals.
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