Finding the right real estate agent is crucial to the success of buying or selling a home. The National Association of Realtors (NAR) reports that homes sold by real estate agents sell for 16% more on average than those sold by homeowners. Additionally, NAR found that 87% of buyers purchased their home through a real estate agent or broker.
But how do you find the perfect match? Here are some tips to help you in your search:
Look for experience and credentials. A good real estate agent should have a solid track record of successful sales and be a licensed agent in your state. They should also have additional certifications such as the Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR) or Seller Representative Specialist (SRS).
Check their online presence. A reputable agent should have a professional website and social media presence. This can give you an idea of their marketing strategies and how they will promote your property.
Interview multiple agents. It’s important to meet with several agents and see who you feel most comfortable working with. Don’t be afraid to ask them about their experience, their approach to pricing and marketing, and how they will communicate with you throughout the process.
Ask for references. A good agent should be able to provide you with references from past clients who can speak to their experience working with the agent.
Look for a good fit. Buying or selling a home can be a stressful process, so it’s important to find an agent you feel comfortable communicating with and who understands your needs.
A study by the Stanford Graduate School of Business found that homes sold by real estate agents in the US sold for on average $51,000 more than homes sold by homeowners. It is important to note that homes sold by agents tend to be more expensive, but agents are able to get higher prices due to their knowledge of the market, negotiation skills and access to a wider pool of buyers.
Furthermore, agents can help you navigate the complex legal and financial aspects of buying or selling a home. They can also help you find the right mortgage lender and home inspector. They have access to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS), a database of properties for sale that is not available to the public, this give them access to more properties and more information about them.
Working with a real estate agent can also save you time and stress. They can help you find the right property, handle negotiations, and take care of paperwork. This is especially beneficial for first-time homebuyers who may not be familiar with the process.
In conclusion, finding the right real estate agent is crucial to the success of buying or selling a home. A good agent can help you get a better price for your home, navigate the complex legal and financial aspects of the process, and save you time and stress. To find the perfect match, look for an experienced and credentialed agent with a solid track record, check their online presence, interview multiple agents, ask for references, and look for a good fit.
For more information on finding a real estate agent, visit the National Association of Realtors (NAR) website at www.nar.realtor or contact them at 800-874-6500. You can also check the database of licensed agents in your state on the website of your state’s real estate regulatory agency