 You
have probably heard the expression many times that “Home is
where the Heart is”. For most it is the place where
relationships grow, families are started, and dreams are
fulfilled. In addition, for most people it is one of the
largest financial ventures one may encounter. Whether you
are looking to purchase or sell a home, it will be a major
event in your life.
Choosing the right Realtor to assist you is imperative so
start at the beginning and select your Real Estate Agent
first. There are many Realtors to choose from but keep in
mind that this person will be assisting you with major life
changing decisions. Many clients find their realtor via
personal recommendations, or after calling and inquiring
about a home they saw on a website or print ad. Do not be
afraid to have a “Realtor interview” ready and be prepared
to ask the questions that matter most to you. You will then
have the opportunity to select the right person to navigate
the real estate market for you with your own specific needs
and desires.
Some very important questions to ask in the interviewing
process should include the following. Does the Realtor
participate in the local Multiple Listing Service? Does the
office affiliated with the realtor maintain a competitive
edge in the current market? Is the agent full time, or part
time, and will the agent be readily accessible to work with
you. How many properties have they listed or sold in the
current market. Is the Realtor knowledgeable about the area
you are interested in buying or selling in. Does the Realtor
have access to local knowledge regarding school districts,
neighborhood demographics, and community amenities. (i.e.
transportation routes, local shopping, public beaches,
pools, golf courses, etc). Is the Realtor a member in good
standing with the local board or association of REALTORS?
Who will the Realtor be representing in the transaction, the
buyer or the seller. Is the Realtor an active member of the
community and is the Realtor involved with local service,
sports, or community groups? Sphere of influence is an
important factor and will broaden your network.
If you are a “buyer” you will want to make sure the Realtor
will be able to walk you thru the entire sales process. Will
the Realtor maintain contact with you on an as needed basis
when new listings become available? Your Realtor is working
for you and consistency is extremely important. Do they have
expertise to recommend attorneys, engineers, and mortgage
brokers? Can they set you up with a “timeline” of what to
expect as you proceed with a purchase. Will they select
homes for you based specifically on your personal desires or
wishes within your personal budget? The Realtor should also
be able to provide you with a general overview of closing
costs.
If you are looking for a Realtor to sell your home or do a
comparative market analysis of what your home is worth, they
also should be prepared to sign on as your personal
assistant. The Realtor can assist you in getting your home
ready to sell and make suggestions that will improve your
possibilities of getting the highest price for your home. An
aggressive marketing strategy is imperative in today’s
market place. Make sure the Realtor and the affiliated
company’s advertising plan fits your needs. Be sure to
inquire where and when will your home be advertised and if
the ads will be internet driven, print ads or television
marketed. Ask what the commission rate will be and what it
includes as well as what the split will be between the
“listing” agency and the “selling” agency. Lastly and
extremely important, make sure the dollar amount which is
suggested to sell your home is based on actual facts and not
an inflated price to “impress” the seller. Do not be afraid
to ask questions or make additional requests. Your Realtor
will appreciate an active participant.
Following these steps and asking these hard questions will
make you feel confident in your choice of agent selection.
Do not forget that the Realtor works for you! It is so
important to trust in your relationship with your Real
Estate Agent. This will also allow the Realtor to do the
best job for you. Buying or selling a home should be an
exciting process, and a mutually satisfying relationship
will allow the entire process to go much smoother from
beginning to end.Email
Andrea at:
agianna1@aol.com
if you have any real estate
questions or for future article topics.
About the Author:
Andrea Casey is a Licensed Sales Agent with Century 21 Bays
Edge Realty, located in the heart of downtown Sayville.
Andrea has been a Top Producer, selling Real Estate in this
community for the past 11 years. She serves this community
through the Sayville Rotary Club, Splashes of Hope, The
Bayport Blue Point Foundation, Mercy Center and The Common
Ground, as well as other local involvements. She can be
contacted at 631-563-1616 ext 247 or on cell phone at 516
971-9069 for any questions regarding Real Estate or other
community inquiries. |
