How to hire a real estate agent?

Question

Hello, obviously this is a noobie question, so any advice is greatly appreciated.

I've exchanged emails with a few real estate agents but I'm unaware of the process of actually going about hiring one. How do you ask to work with them? Should I call them instead of emailing or do both? What sort of questions should I be asking? I imagine they have to want me as a client, so how do I best present my intentions for them to consider their options? Do you work with multiple and the one that finds a deal gets paid or do you pick one and work directly with them?

Some general info about what I'm looking for if it is relevant to anything I've asked:

• Single-family home
• less than 550k 
• paying cash with the intention to likely refinance
• College Park, MD
• Ideally looking for something in the next 6 months but if not possible, then something in the next year
•

Grace Wang · Answer

Hey @Matthew Foulk! From an agent's perspective, I'd be very transparent that you're interviewing multiple realtors. Once you've narrowed down the one you want to work with, let him/her know "hey I'd love to work with you".

If you are looking for an investor-friendly agent, here are some questions to ask:

• - How often do you work with real estate investors? (gauges experience)
• - What are the best strategies for maximum ROI in XYZ City? (demonstrates investment knowledge)
• - What services do you offer when working with investors? (shows how well-networked he/she is with contractors, CPA, property management, etc)
• - What does your investment portfolio look like? (shows if they have a similar mindset to you)

These are obviously just a few examples, but a great place to start! I know i'm not in your market but I'd be happy to answer more questions if you want to DM me\