How to find a good Realtor

I wrote this blog because I see a few fellow members are not happy with a Realtor that they worked with. Just like in other parts of life, you may not be happy with service provide and it could be a number of reason why you're not happy. Sometimes, it may be the service provider. Other times it could be you. Keep in mind, we require the assistance of others throughout life and working through issues is an important skill to gain. Communication is the key!

A Realtor has control of certain aspects of the process and no control in other areas. (ex. You present an offer - the offer is reviewed by the Realtor and presented. The owner rejects and says I'm not accepting any offer that's not my asking price). The price for the property could be an unrealistic number. The judiciary responsibility is with the seller that the Realtor has a contract with. Take it from me, it's time dedicated to reviewing the market in the area and the suggested price is provide by the Realtor and reviewed by the broker. If the person refuses to take the suggestion the house goes on the market with the price the owner wants. What tends to happen, it will be a price reduction at some point. Other things like service are one that they can control. Returning a phone call to a client should always be done. Presenting offers and taking counter offers. Locating the property that you want can take some time due to a fellow Realtor not entering the data into the MLS accurately (ex they list the house with 3 bedrooms when it has 4). Or what you're looking for is not one the market. This is where communication is important. Our role is also different because we're bound by laws; we attempt to protect our clients from breaking the law and committing fraud. Not all investors follow the state Real Estate laws.

Now on to the topic of"How to find a good Realtor".

If you do not know a Realtor, a good way to find one is to visit open houses in the area. I would recommend going to at least 3 to 6 on a Sunday afternoon. Remember that if this is your primary residency, it's an important decision so you want someone you can trust. If you're an investor, you will become busy and need help to market and get your properties sold. Think like big business, don't focus on what it will cost, and think about what you may lose. Plus, it's a tax write off so don't forget to interview an accountant.

A good Realtor can be a critical asset because they have access to thousands of other agents to locate a perspective buyer or seller. One email to 4400 Realtor's just within one company alone can be sent and they will share. Also magnify that with the other Realtor's in the industry.

Now how to interview. Just stop by the open house and see how the Realtor interacts with you. Ask several questions about the particular home you’re in. See if the person has knowledge about the home, the area and what's happening in the community. Ask a silly question and if the response is good take notes. Now let’s get to specific questioning. Ask the follow:

1. What sets you apart from other agents?

2. How does support from your company benefit your customers?

3. What is your position on home inspections?

4. What is your company's record for market time and rate of listings expiring unsold?

5. How do you establish your opinion of value for a home?

6 How quickly and often can you furnish market data updates on new listing, sales and more?

7. Do you prefer returning customers phone calls in person or by email?

8. If a buyer asks what a home they are interested in is worth, how do you answer?

9. If you’re an investor, ask an investor related question any one will do. A good Realtor will have read the "ultimate Guide series on BG"

After doing this go back somewhere quite and review each candidate and add up the pros and cons. Then select one.

Your needs should match the style of service that he/she provides.

Good luck and much success!