How do you know which real estate agent is right for you when you’re buying a home? Choosing the best person to represent you when negotiating your home purchase is a major decision. When choosing a real estate agent, be sure to look for a REALTOR®. These agents, registered with the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®, have the benefit of the organization’s professional development options, research opportunities and informational exchange.

REALTORS® commit to meet their organization’s high standards for professionalism and ethics and agree to preserve the free enterprise system and the right to own, use and transfer real property. 

It’s important to work with an experienced agent. Choose an agent who works with buyers on a regular basis. It is important for an agent to know the neighborhoods and surrounding areas that you are targeting. He or she should also have relationships with other agents in that locale. The agent’s networking efforts will pay off, as you will quickly learn about new homes becoming available.

Most professionals understand the value of providing great service. By going the extra mile, agents demonstrate that they are looking out for your best interests in an effort to gain your respect. Here are a few examples of what “going the extra mile” means:

It’s important to find an agent who understands and respects your time. An experienced REALTOR® will often roll out the red carpet for you. He or she knows the value of personally referring and introducing you to all of the professionals whose services you will need during the buying process (for example: they will personally introduce and have discussions with your lender, movers, inspectors, etc…). A REALTOR® moves beyond the one-time transaction frame of mind and builds a long-term client relationship. 

The bottom line is, an agent will help you fulfill your dream of buying a home. An experienced agent will ask many questions in order to fully understand your goals and listen to your needs! With a full understanding of your standards and expectations, agents will eliminate the listings that do not meet your criteria. Your potential agent should also take your finances into consideration and understand what price you are comfortable and qualified to pay for a home. The agent should have a system in place that provides you full customer satisfaction.

Make sure your agent has access to some type of Multiple Listing Service (MLS). This service includes listings of homes as they become available. The listing also provides valuable details, such as the properties’ demographics, tax amount for the previous year; the last time the house was lived in, etc.  

In today’s society everyone is busy. Your agent should be there for you, and if not then they should have a back-up plan. When they are available, speed and quality needs to be of high importance. Most agents have Geographical Positioning Systems (GPS) that provide street-by-street directions to an address. This saves time on those Saturday mornings when you and your agent are touring properties. 

An agent who has your best interests in mind will understand and value your goals and dreams. A strong negotiator will fight on your behalf and negotiate to get the most favorable deal for you. Plus, he or she will provide guidance every step of the way. This will save you both time and money in your quest for your perfect home.