Whether it’s your first or your fifth, buying a home can be a difficult process, and having an expert on the situation with you can make things much easier. That’s why people hire real estate agents. Real estate agents are professionals in buying and selling homes and more than anything they want to make sure you’re getting a good deal and that any potential headaches don’t come your way. The thing is, finding the perfect real estate agent can be tricky. There are so many agents out there that finding one that matches you and your needs can be a problem. Here are a few tips to make it a little easier.
Understand Realtor vs. Real Estate Agent
The first step to finding the perfect agent is making sure you understand the difference between a realtor and a real estate agent. If you’re like many other people, you might not have realized that there is a difference between the two terms. Many assume the terms are interchangeable. The truth of the matter is that all realtors are real estate agents but not all real estate agents are realtors. Realtors are those who belong to the NAR, or National Association of Realtors, and the biggest difference is that they pledge to follow the NAR Code of Ethics, which is a list of 17 articles and standards of practice. Think of it as a code of conduct that holds realtors at a higher standard of business than regular agents. If this is something that matters to you, you may want to make sure you get a realtor and not just a real estate agent.
Interview, Interview, Interview
Interviewing potential real estate agents is key to finding a good match, but it’s important to interview at least 3 if not more. If you meet with your first agent and feel that they’re the perfect match, that’s great! You still want to make sure you interview at least 2 more. While that first one might seem great, you may find someone even better. In your interviews, be sure to ask questions such as if they have a list of references, or if they can provide a list of their recent sales. You also want to make sure you pay attention to how they respond to your questions, as it can be a good sign of how they’ll treat you throughout the entire process.
Ask Pros For Recommendations
If you know anybody who works in the real estate industry, it’s always good to ask for recommendations. Even if you don’t know anyone, other pros are often willing to refer you to their associates, especially if they aren’t as knowledgeable of what you may be looking for, such as someone not being skilled in foreclosures if that’s what you’re considering buying.