This post is a continuation of a blog series for buyers titled So You Want to Buy A House. Now What ???
You're pre-qualified and pre-approved. Your next step is to choose what Realtor to work with. Maybe you're thinking that you don't need a Realtor. You will just work with the agent that lists the house you're interested in. Or you don't think you can afford one. Wrong.
Working with a Realtor is free in most cases. They are usually conpensated by the listing agent and that agent's broker. Be sure to ask the agent under what circumstances you might be charged a fee. Usually, it may involve a For Sale By Owner (FSBO). But many FSBO's are willing to conpensated a buyers agent for bringing an offer from a buyer.
Sellers that list with an agent are represented by that agent. The agents job is to look out for the best interest of the seller. You need someone that is looking out for your best interest too.
A Realtor is a licensed professional that is a member of the National Realtor Association and required to abide by a Code of Ethics that require us to always do the right thing and look out for the clients best interest. A Realtor is more than just someone that has access to houses, they guide you throughout the entire process. They have the ability to help you avoid problems that can pop up at any time and if problems arrise, they have the knowledge and resourses to help you get past those problems.
Questions to ask a Realtor:
1. What are your obligations to a buyer and are you willing to put them in writing?
2. How will you represent me in a transaction?
3. What are your strengths and how will they benefit us?
4. When are you available to show us homes and how much notice to you need?
5. Are you available to answer questions by phone or text in the evenings?
6. Can you provide a buyer estimated expenses based on the maximum amount we are pre-approved for?
There are many Realtors to choose from and the best way to find a good one is to ask for a referral. Ask your family, friends and co-workers that have purchased a home who they worked with. Was it a good experience and would they use that agent again? You can also ask your lender for a referral. They definately know which one's are on the ball and which one's are not. And after you have talked with a two or three, sometimes, it just comes down to who you feel the most comfortable with.
Once you choose one, trust that they know what they are doing and if you ever start to question their ability, discus your concerns with them. If you can't resolve what ever the issue is, don't hesitate to respecfully and officially sever the relationship and find someone else to help you.
Look for more blogs in this series in the coming days. If you live in the Tampa Bay area or are moving here, call me and lets talk about your goals, dreams and wishes and together lets discover how I can best help you.
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