Over the past 2 decades we have spoken with thousands of homeowners only to learn that so many have had a negative experience when dealing with a real estate agent. So many buyers & sellers make the mistake of hiring a REALTOR® based on the wrong selection criteria. Many only interview one agent.
Selling a home is probably one of the most important and biggest dollar value transactions the average person will ever enter into. You’d think it would only make sense to hire a seasoned professional to navigate your sale.
Before selecting your REALTOR® to help you in your next real estate transaction here are a few tips to ensure you make the right decision.
Firstly, it’s always wise to speak with 3 REALTORS® to ensure what you are hearing makes sense. Some questions to ask:
1. How many sales do they have in the immediate neighborhood where you are buying or selling. It always makes sense to select a REALTOR® who works in your neighborhood.
2. How many listings and or how many buyers are they presently working with. A REALTOR® with 20 or more active listing may to be busy to provide you with the service you expect.
3. How many associates does the REALTOR® have working with them? If your agent is part of a team who’s the one will you be dealing with. Who will be showing your home? Is it important for you to have your agent showing up to show the home & be present at open houses? If they cannot commit chances are you are going to have an assistant show your home. Are you ok with that?
4. Ask your agent if they are planning on taking any vacation time during your listing period. While everyone deserves a vacation I think it’s important to know whether their vacation will take place while you are selling your home.
Does your agent live in the neighborhood or in close proximity to where you are buying or selling. Hiring a REALTOR® who is not knowledgeable about property values in your area can cost you big time. Don’t list or buy with a friend who lives 25 miles away. Have them refer you to a local agent.
Asking a few simple questions can ensure you a better outcome when selling or buying your next property.
Happy Selling,
Andrew & Jill Hasman
The data relating to real estate on this website comes in part from the MLS® Reciprocity program of either the Real Estate Board of Greater Vancouver (REBGV), the Fraser Valley Real Estate Board (FVREB) or the Chilliwack and District Real Estate Board (CADREB). Real estate listings held by participating real estate firms are marked with the MLS® logo and detailed information about the listing includes the name of the listing agent. This representation is based in whole or part on data generated by either the REBGV, the FVREB or the CADREB which assumes no responsibility for its accuracy. The materials contained on this page may not be reproduced without the express written consent of either the REBGV, the FVREB or the CADREB.