Keep these tips in mind when searching for the perfect agent for you.
Make Sure the Agent Knows You... And your needs.
Always make sure your agent knows what your needs are. You should make a list of your wishes, wants and needs for them to see. This list will note all those items you absolutely must have in the home (your "needs") to those items you would love to have if money were no option (your "wishes). Anything that falls in between these two categories is called your "wants"-it would be great to have them, but you could live without them if you had to. Make notes and share them with your agent. It will help them to find you the right home.
Be Sure They Are Available
They should be available at your convenience.
Ask your agent what days they will be available to view homes. They are supposed to work with you, and make it easy with your busy schedule. Know up front what their schedule is going to be. If they can't meet you on weekends and that is your only free time, you need to find someone else. Your agent should work around your schedule, not the opposite. Let your agent know what times are best for you and see if this is going to be a problem.
Target Purchase DateLet them know your time frame.
Let your agent know when you need to move, or if you have some flexibility. Your time frame will determine the strategy of your search. Some homes may not be an option for you if you have to move in by a certain date. You don't want your agent taking you to homes that you may want only to find out they aren't available when you need them to be.
Make Lists It will help keep you objective.
Make a list for yourself of the ideal characteristics of your ideal agent. Interview different agents and rank them against your list of ideal characteristics. An objective list drafted ahead of time will help keep you on track as you start your search.
Let's take a look at some pitfalls to avoid when looking for a home or an agent:
1. Thinking you can do it alone because you have been through it before. You need to take time to consider all the things a professional agent can bring to the search. It may be worth getting some help, even if it is only to gain access to the listings.
2. Not knowing what you want can waste a lot of time�and, if you are using a buyer broker, money.
3. Not realizing the differences among agents can make a big difference. If you don't know that most agents (except exclusive buyer brokers) talk to the seller, you may talk too much yourself. Learn the difference before you spend too much.
4. Not taking the time to properly interview an agent before signing on with them. Agents are not all alike. Make sure you find one who will work with you and for you on your terms. Find one that suits your needs, not the other way around.
5. Not realizing that the buyer broker costs you. Check around before signing with one. You need someone who can get you a great deal and can save you enough money on a home to more than pay for the services and still come out ahead. Not everyone can do that.
That Concludes This Course
Are you willing to test what you've learned by taking a brief quiz on the material? Be sure to review the sections of the course related to your WRONG answers!
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