Find a Great Sarasota Agent - And Stick with Them!
In past blogs, I have addressed many popular myths regarding short sales and foreclosures, representation, and more regarding Sarasota real estate. The simple truth is that home buyers are not aware, for the most part, of the complexities inherent in every phase of the process - from searching to closing.
One issue I feel compelled to speak of regards employing more than one real estate agent when looking for a home. On the surface, it would seem that working with multiple agents might multiply your chances of finding the perfect place. But in reality, you might be inadvertently causing confusion that will cause hurt feelings at best - and lawsuits at worst. Sarasota Fl agents are required to have you sign a disclosure prior to showing you homes - read the disclosure to make sure you are not obligating yourself to several agents!
Now let me point one thing out - I do not expect anyone to work with me, or one of my agents, if we are not doing a good job for you. So this blog is not intended to imply that you should stick with a deadbeat, or someone who is not satisfactorily meeting your needs. It is to suggest, however, that once you find a good agent, that working exclusively with them secures the BEST chance of finding a great place.
A good Sarasota buyer agent works very hard, and many long hours, to scout out great deals and possibilities for your purchase. They may go out ahead of your visit to preview properties and neighborhoods, take additional photos to send you, and research schools. There is a lot of footwork, gas, and many hours that go into making sure your outings are targeted and productive - we don't want to waste your time.
When beginning your search, feel free to look around and speak to multiple agents. Ask them about their thoughts on the market, ask them to compare two parts of town, ask them to tell you about the school system. Get them talking. Should an agent refuse to chat with you about the market, simply insisting you meet with them first, sign papers, etc, move on. Should a Sarasota real estate agent merely refer you to links or websites without sharing insight, move on. Why? Let's face it - we see more property than you, and we know a lot about each neighborhood, subdivision, and all the surrounding amenities. If there is something wrong, or someplace better for you, we should be offering suggestions and advice. When you get ready to purchase, you'll want someone who will give you candid information, not just try to get you to sign.
If you are out of town, find an exclusive buyer agent that works well online prior to your visit. Although there is absolutely no replacement for actually being here, we can learn a lot about your desired lifestyle over the phone and via email, and begin to formulate a plan of possible great locations for you. Simply finding listings online is often a blind process that leads to disappointment - a great house in a bad neighborhood is likely not what you want!
Finding a great agent may take some up front work, but once you do find him or her, stick with them! Like in any great relationship, the more we learn about you, the better your time will be spent. You won't see the same home a few times...or explain your specifications over and over..or waste time seeing homes that don't really match your needs.
Its all about relationship. Once you find a great agent, you should feel no need to work with anyone else. I invite you to call and talk to me at any time.
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