How to Hire a Real Estate Agent as a Home Buyer
Having the right real estate agent when you're buying a home can make a big difference. Good communication and a mutual understanding of what you're looking for and what your relationship will be are essential. Research several agents before you make a decision and trust your instincts because you may end up working with the agent for many months while you search for the perfect home. Finding the home is easier when you're working with a Realtor you like and trust.
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Instructions
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Make sure you hire a buyer's agent. A buyer's agent is working only for you, and her commission will be paid to her brokerage by the seller. Don't hire an agent who will be representing both the owner of the house and you, the purchaser.
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Go to open houses that are represented by different agents. Take time to talk to the agent at the open house. Follow up with agents who gave you sufficient time and answered your questions appropriately.
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Approach several agents by phone and email. Hire an agent who returns telephone calls and correspondence.
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Interview the agent. Make sure he listens to you and understands exactly what type of home you're looking for, what your budget is and what sort of financing you're eligible for. Question him to make sure he has experience in these areas.
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Check agent's licenses and affiliation with professional associations. If you have any doubts, check with the Better Business Bureau or Chamber of Commerce to see if there have been any complaints filed against the agent.
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Sign a contract with the agent. Contracts vary in length from a couple of weeks to six months. This protects you and assures the agent that you're serious about purchasing with her help.
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Tips & Warnings
Don't forget word of mouth. Ask your friends and co-workers for recommendations. Don't leave it up to the agent to find all of the available houses. Take the initiative when you see a home in the paper or online and ask your agent to show it to you. Peruse Realtor's websites and call likely prospects if you're looking for a home in a different state. Try to find one who you're confident will be responsive.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Bull Dog Realtors
