When you buy a home for the first time, your experience with a real estate agent can either seem frustrating, or be a fun experience. Most people purchase their home with the help of a real estate agent, so choosing an agent is a crucial step in the process. To find the best agent for you, here are some of the most important questions to ask a real estate agent.
Agents with years of experience in this business have the ability to plan ahead and solve any issues that arise. Additionally, they have tested and proven negotiation techniques that will benefit you.
Agents who work full-time in the industry are a better choice because they can invest more time in your real estate experience, especially in comparison to an agent who just views the real estate market as a side hustle.
Too many clients can mean that an agent is extra busy and doesn’t have enough time to dedicate to you. On the other hand, if the agent hardly has any clients, that’s an obvious red flag as well.
If you’re wondering what other questions to ask a real estate agent, always choose a licensed agent. Unfortunately, fraud is a common occurrence in the real estate industry, so additional precautions aren’t a bad idea.
The whole process can sound complicated to people without any experience. Listen carefully and take notes if you want. It’s also okay to request clarifications.
Check-in to find out when to contact your agent for the fastest response. It’s best to make sure that your schedules are compatible, and that the agent is free to show you homes during your available hours. Usually, open houses are on Saturday and Sunday.
In a competitive market, a seller may not even consider a low offer. However, if the market is in your favor, don’t rush in with a high offer and risk overpaying. Your agent should have the experience to tell you right away what the situation is, and list the reasons for whether or not to negotiate. With so much money involved, it’s important to be sure you can trust your agent to make the right call.
If you’re looking to buy or sell your home in the Bay Area, contact our team at (925) 595-8047, or email [email protected]. We’re consistently ranked among the top 1% of agents in Contra Costa County and we’re happy to answer your questions.
