Questions to Ask Your Realtor about Buying a House
1. Are you a full-time professional Realtor®? Knowing whether or not your agent practices full time can help you determine potential scheduling conflicts and his or her commitment to your transaction. A full time agent is more likely to get the job done more efficiently. HOWEVER, this is not to say that a Part-Time agent in incapable of doing the job just as well. This is why the interview process is so important
2. Do you have a personal assistant, team or staff to handle different parts of the purchase? What are their names and how will each of them help me in my transaction? How do I communicate with them?
It is not uncommon for agents who sell a lot of houses to hire people to work with them. They typically work on a referral basis, and, as their businesses grow, they must be able to deliver the same or higher quality service to more people.
You may want to know who on the team will take part in your transaction, and what role each person will play. If you have a question about fees on your closing statement, who would handle that? Who will show up to your closing?
3. Do you have a Website that will provide me with useful information? Can I have your URL address? Who responds to emails and how quickly? What's your email address?
Many homebuyers prefer to search online for homes because it's available 24 hours a day and you can do it in the privacy of your own home. By searching your real estate agent's Website you will get a clear picture of how much work you would be able to accomplish online.
4. Will you show me properties from other companies' listings?
Some real estate companies do offer their buyers' agents a higher commission if they are able to sell "in-house" listings. In such circumstances, there can be added incentive to limit the range of homes you are shown. This may impact your home search and how much your buyer agent's fee will be. Be sure to ask to see ALL listings that fit your criteria.(Hint: look at the sign in the yard when you visit a home, if its the same company over and over, you may want to questions your agent about that.)
5. How will you get paid? How are your fees structured? In many areas, the seller pays all agent commissions. Sometimes, agents will have other small fees, such as administrative or special service fees, that are charged to clients, regardless of whether they are buying or selling. Be aware of the big picture before you sign any agreements. Ask for an estimate of buyer costs from any agent you contemplate employing.
6. What distinguishes you from other real estate agents? What is your negotiating style and how does it differ from others? What geographic areas do you specialize in?
Each agent has unique methods of overcoming obstacles and negotiating deals. The most important thing is to make sure your agent is an effective advocate for you.
7. Will you give me names of past clients?
Interviewing an agent can be similar to interviewing someone to work in your office. Contacting references can be a reliable way for you to understand how he or she works, and whether or not this style is compatible with your own. Many agents will put a few testimonials up on their website, these work just as well. If their are no testimonials ask why, and ask to contact past clients.
8. Do you have a performance guarantee? If I am not satisfied with your performance, can I terminate our Buyer Agency Agreement?
In the heavily regulated world of real estate, it can be difficult for an agent to offer a performance guarantee. If your agent does not have a guarantee, it does not mean they are not committed to high standards. Typically, he or she will verbally outline what you can expect from their performance. Keller Williams® Realty understands the importance of win-win business relationships: the agent does not benefit if the client does not also benefit.
9. How will you keep in contact with me during the buying process?
Some agents may email, fax or call you daily to tell you about properties that meet your criteria, while others will keep in touch weekly. Asking this question can help you to reconcile your needs with your agent's systems.
For more information on Home-buying or Selling Contact Me for a sit down consultation. Also, feel free to use my website http://www.thelandryteam.com/ as a real estate resource.
As well, you can visit my website and get set up on Free Market Snapshots!! These can be customized for buyers or sellers. This will help you know your market, know whats going on, and know what your competition is looking at too. For sellers, this is a great tool to help price your home, and scope out the competition.
Liz Landry-Keller Williams Realty First Coast
1.877.886.0849
Liz Landry * The Landry Team * Keller Williams Realty First Coast * 904-803-2459 *
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