How to Find a Top-Listing Real Estate Agent
Selling your house can be a stressful experience, especially in a down real estate market. Finding a good listing agent can mean the difference between selling quickly and sitting on the market for months. A good agent also can bring in the best possible offer, netting you the best possible price for your home. Keeping in mind a few important steps can help you find the best listing agent for you.
Other People Are Reading
Things You'll Need
- Computer with Internet access
- Local newspaper
- Local real estate magazines
Instructions
-
-
1
Ask family and friends for their recommendations. Look around your neighborhood for homes that are for sale and ask those neighbors who they are using and if they would recommend them. Referrals from former clients are an agent's best source of business.
-
2
Do an online search, using "Top Real Estate Agents" and your town or ZIP code as the search criteria. Or, use www.realestateagent.com or www.homesteps.com for a more specific agent search.
-
-
3
Check out local classified ads and real estate magazines for agents, recommends Realtor.com. Specifically look for agents in your home's immediate area and neighborhood who have active listings.
-
4
Narrow your choices to three or four agents from all the ones you found in your Internet and other searches.
-
5
Put together a list of important questions to ask each agent, suggests Yahoo Real Estate. Ask about their experience, how many homes they have sold in your neighborhood, what is their commission and other pertinent questions.
-
6
Contact each agent and ask for a time to meet and discuss listing your home.
-
7
List the pros and cons of each agent and make your decision.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Pay attention to an agent's credentials. According to Realtor.org, an agent who is a Realtor is a member of the National Association of Realtors and adheres to its strict code of ethics. Other credentials to look for include Certified Residential Specialist (CRS) and Graduate Realtor Institute (GRI). All these certifications indicate the agent is well-trained.
When meeting with an agent for the first time, be prepared with your home's information, including square feet, number of bedrooms, etc. This will help the agent better answer your questions accurately.
Always meet with an agent for the first time at an office or a public place and try not to meet with the person alone. You can also meet at your home if you are comfortable.
When working with people there are never any guarantees. Even if you follow all these steps, you may not find the right agent right away. Be persistent.
