Before you decide to work with a real estate agent, make a shortlist based on personal recommendations, on-ground research, and online exploration. To research an agent, go to a site like HomeLight, Google’s business page, or Yelp. Check out the reviews for their services, and see if their people skills and personality match what you are looking for in an agent. Furthermore, choosing the right real estate agent is more than meets the eye, it can make a big difference and is a decision not to take lightly.

Finding a real estate agent

There are several ways to find a real estate agent, from recommendations to interviews. Ask people you know if they have had any experience with a particular agent, and consider their opinions. Check out local real estate association websites and magazines for recommendations. If you know someone who recently purchased or sold a home, talk to them about their experiences. You can also view for-sale signs in your area to see which agents are best for you.

During the interview, make sure to ask the prospective agent about their area of specialization. Some agents specialize in seller’s properties, while others are buyer’s agents. Some agents focus on certain markets, such as the larger metro areas. You want someone who understands the market in which you’re interested. You’ll also want someone who is willing to do the research required to find a home within your price range.

Checking a real estate agent’s online reputation

It’s essential to check a real estate agent’s reputation online – or at least the reputation of a real estate agency you’re considering hiring. While there are numerous ways to advertise your business, many real estate professionals forget about social media. Social media has become an effective, convenient way to reach new clients. To check an agent’s reputation is on top of the heap, read the online reviews and feedback from previous customers.

Reviews help drive new business for real estate companies. In fact, a staggering 97% of online shoppers read reviews of products and services before making a decision. Similarly, when buying products and services on Amazon, customers usually check reviews and real pictures before deciding which one to buy. It’s no surprise then, that real estate clients check online reviews to make an informed decision about a new agent’s performance.

Ask about their experience and what they specialize in

When it comes to selecting a real estate agent, the first thing to consider is the type of service that the individual offers. Some agents specialize in particular types of properties, while others serve a wider variety of clients. Regardless of which type of real estate agent you choose, you’ll want to ask about their experience, references, and communication skills. When hiring an agent, be sure to be a good listener and communicate openly with your chosen agent.

A real estate agent should be honest, straightforward, and responsive to questions about the property you’re interested in. They shouldn’t promise unrealistic results or make you feel pressured into making an offer you can’t afford. They should call the facts like they are and should have several options available if you’re not satisfied. Ultimately, you want an agent who is trustworthy, has integrity and experienced with the local market.

Check the agent’s previous sales and results

When finding a real estate agent to manage the sale of your property, be sure to check their sales history and results. This will give you an indication of their experience and success in managing similar properties to your own. Perhaps they have sold many properties in the street and already have clients looking to purchase in the area. You would prefer one with a history and the expertise to achieve the results you desire, choosing one that promises great results with less commission but hasn’t sold in the area before may save you on sales commission but you could be missing out of thousands if the property sells for less.

What is most important when choosing the best real estate agent to represent the sale of your home is that you feel comfortable. Property sales are essentially a partnership between you and the real estate agent looking to achieve a common goal. The higher the sale of your home, the more the agent is rewarded. So be sure you are comfortable with the person who you choose to sell your home.