What does it cost me to have you as my buyers agent?

Choosing an agent can be confusing, especially when there are so many to choose from. Among questions about an agent's experience, local market knowledge credentials.  Here are nine questions to ask an agent before deciding he or she is the right one for you.

Do you work full-time or part-time as a real estate agent?   Full-time work typically means more attention for you.

How well do you know the area(s) I am interested in?   An agent who specializes in the area in which you are interested is preferable. He or she will be able to advise you as to home prices and how quickly you'll need to act based on the demand in that area.

How many other buyers are you representing now?     The busiest agents often are the most efficient.

Will you handle all aspects of my transaction or will you delegate some tasks to a sales associate or administrative assistant?     A knowledgeable assistant can be invaluable, but make sure that you can connect with your agent when you need to.

Can you give me a comparative market analysis (CMA) of recent sales in the area and homes currently on the market?  This should contain listing and sales prices for recently sold homes as well as listing prices and the listing date of homes currently for sale. It also should include detailed property descriptions (such as square footage and numbers of bedrooms and baths).

Can you provide me with local information on the area?     Your agent should have access to information on local schools, community services, transportation, shopping, etc.

Is your license in good standing?   You should check an agent's certification yourself with your state's department of real estate. Many states provide this information online.  

How many years of education and experience do you have?    Experience and continuing education typically make for better agents.

Are you also a broker and/or a Realtor?    Brokers have more stringent licensing requirements and responsibilities. Realtors are voluntary members of the National Association of Realtors, a trade group.

When I represent you as a buyers agent I work for you and your best interests.  What I expect in our 'handshake agreement' would be loyalty and consideration as to my time and efforts in finding you a new home.  My services are usually paid by the seller when you purchase a home.  

My only job as a Buyers Agent is to represent you!  Let's get started today!

  Lyn Sims (847)230-7324 at RE/MAX Suburban

 

I proudly serve and sell real estate in the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago.  If you are thinking about purchasing or selling your home in the communities of Schaumburg, Hoffman Estates, Elk Grove Village, Roselle, Palatine, Medinah, Itasca, Bloomingdale, Carol Stream, Bartlett, Hanover Park, Streamwood, Elgin, South Elgin, St. Charles and more importantly, want to work with a local area expert, contact me immediately.

All data and information provided on this blog is for informational purposes only.  Lyn Sims makes no representations as to accuracy, completeness, correctness, suitability or validity of any information on this site and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in information or any losses, injuries, or damages arising from it’s display or use.

Buyers Agency - How to pick an agent ©2009 Lyn Sims - RealEstateConsumerInfo.com  and  RealEstateBuyMe.com