Whether you’re looking to buy or sell a house, it’s an extremely exciting time in your life! You’re looking for a fresh start, but this process can also be a bit cumbersome or stressful, which is why it’s important to have someone by your side who can help you.
Keep reading to learn some helpful tips when it comes to finding the best realtor for you and all of your future home needs.
1. Seek Referrals
Whether it’s someone from the neighborhood, or family/friends who live in the same area, ask other homeowners who they recommend for this process and why they recommend them. Chances are they had a good experience with their realtor if they’re suggesting them, and it’s also a huge compliment to the realtor as well. You’re bound to start things off on a good note if you’re contacting them based on a referral.
2. Do Your Research
While referrals, especially from people you trust, are helpful, it wouldn’t hurt to do some of your own research as well. In this age of extremely advanced technology we’re living in, there are plenty of resources at your fingertips. Check out reviews on platforms like Google, Yelp and more. The more information you have, the easier the decision will be.
3. Choose the Person, Not Their Years of Experience
Like we mentioned earlier, the concept of buying or selling a house can have its stressful moments. What’s important is picking a realtor that works best for you. It doesn’t matter if they’ve been in the business for 20 years or for 2 years, as long as they have your best interest at heart. Experience is worthwhile, but don’t let that be an end all be all selling point (no pun intended).
4. Think About What You’re Looking For
We know, we know. Isn’t that part of the realtor’s job? Of course! But having an idea of what you’re looking for can help with the realtor search in the first place. If you have a specific part of town or a certain style of home in mind, you might be able to find someone who specializes in exactly what you’re looking for and has previously worked with clients whose needs mimic your own. Most of our clients start their search solely focused on the amenities they require in the home, but often don’t think about location and how it determines their long-term happiness in their future home. The features inside the home can be changed, but the location cannot be changed, so it is one of the most important buying factors!
5. Check Out the Market
If it’s not too far of a drive, swing by the area you’re interested in and check out current listings. If you aren’t able to go to the neighborhood, try an online search. You’ll be able to easily find the realtor’s information and do some research like we previously mentioned. Do you keep seeing one agent on multiple “For Sale” signs throughout the area? Or even better, do you see the word “SOLD” on those signs? That’s a pretty solid indicator that they know the area well and have also been pretty successful. Nothing beats talking with the local expert realtor. As we pointed out above, the location of a home is something that cannot be changed, so consider consulting with the local expert as your beginning point for your search. The same goes for listing your current home for sale: the local expert realtor will help you the most!
6. Define Your Expectations
Make sure you’ve agreed upon all important details before you start to work together. These include, but are not limited to, commission, listing price, length of contract, etc. The best relationships will come from having this conversation early on and defining exactly what you’re both looking for. When working with any professional, look for someone who will teach you what is going on, not just tell you what you need to do. Working through buying or selling the largest asset you own, you should be learning a lot!
7. Interview at Least Three Agents
While talking to multiple agents might seem like you’re prolonging the process, consider not settling on the first agent you speak with. By talking to different realtors, you’ll be able to gain different perspectives. Talking to various realtors allows you to weigh your options that you might not have even considered before. Their responses to your questions might bring up something you hadn’t considered before.
Now what are you waiting for? Let’s get this process started!
Wolf and Webb is your go to spot in Lancaster, PA for real estate agents. We pride ourselves in turning a stressful experience into a world class, smooth and stress-free experience. Don’t delay, contact us or give us a call at 717-333-WOLF (9653) today!
