How To Choose The Right Buyer’s Agent To Represent You
May 6th, 2009 categories: Buyer Resource
We are often asked a recurring question when we meet with clients that we may not know well…Why should we choose you to represent us in our home search?
This is actually a great question, and one any buyer should ask when selecting a Sonoma County Real Estate Agent. We have heard this question quite a bit, especially as we see prices drop so much that many out of towners are realizing they can retire to the Sonoma County Wine Country.
I put together some questions you should ask any Real Estate professional when you consider who should help/represent you.
- Is the Real Estate professional a REALTOR? A REALTOR is a member of the National Association of REALTORS
- Does the Real Estate Agent have a Real Estate License that is in Good Standing? Most state’s Real Estate Commission keeps records of this that are easily accessible online.
- Does the agent have access to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS)? Most of the time, if a Real Estate professional is a member of the local Real Estate Board, they have access to the MLS. This is essential , as you will need to see what homes are on the market, days on the market, what were the prices of comparable sales, etc.
- Is Real Estate the full time career of this person? This topic can be debated, however, we feel that a part time Realtor only offers part time service. When it comes to one of the largest purchases of your life, do you want to take a chance here?
- Does the Real Estate Agent take advantage of continuing education?
- What Real Estate designations does the Real Estate Agent hold? There are all sorts of designations that can help
give broad based knowledge, or can help a Real Estate Agent focus on a niche. Ex: A Green Designation from the National Association of Realtors trains Real Estate Agents in all aspects of environmental Real Estate, and how to make homes more environmentally friendly. - Which side does the Real Estate Agent represent? Make sure your Real Estate Agent represents YOUR best interests.
- Given your commitment to the Real Estate Agent, how will he/she help you accomplish your goals.
There are surely other questions that will be important to different people. Given that, the answers themselves will also vary in importance to those asking them. Make sure you are comfortable with the answers you have received, and the Real Estate Agent you choose.
Consult a REALTOR when you decide who to choose to represent you in buying your home. Realtors must adhere to the Realtor Code Of Ethics ensuring your best interests are kept in mind. Many REALTORS also choose to donate to the Realtor Political Action Committee (RPAC) which lobbies Federal and State Governments to fight for landowner and homeowner rights, so they/we are already working on your side.
Visit us at WineCountryMoves.com to start your Sonoma County Real Estate search.
Excellent advice on choosing a buyer’s agent.
Take care. ~Brandon