A qualified, competent real estate agent will help you navigate the myriad of decisions that arise when buying and selling a home. An agent provides value to the homeowner in many ways:
- Pays for all marketing and advertising costs.
- Adds experience and expertise in all aspects of the sales process including marketing, financing, negotiations and more.
- Handles all showings.
- Brings a network of known, trusted real estate professionals. If your agent doesn't have the answer, he or she likely knows someone who does.
- Always has your interests in mind so you always have someone on your side.
- Can handle and advise on all price and contract negotiations.
- Provides you with all the possible options and opportunities without holding back.
- Gives an unbiased, realistic view of your home and your options. Unlike buyers and sellers, an agent has no emotional attachment to the property.
- Has the knowledge to help you ask the right questions.
- Being a third party, potential buyers are more likely to tell your agent the truth about your home, even if it is unflattering. This objective viewpoint will help you make the necessary changes to get your home sold.
- Your time is valuable. A real estate agent allows you to spend your time how you want.
With the above in mind, here are some questions to ask when interviewing agents:
1. How do you assist a buyer from the start of the transaction through closing?
Make sure that the agent has a precise presentation for you that explains exactly how they work and how they represent only you and your best interests.
2. What is your experience with financing and what are my options?
Each buyer's situation is different. We can literally put you in a much better financial situation with the same monthly payments simply by adjusting your financing. It's always best to shop around for your lenders and there may be several alternatives. Don't depend solely on the first lender you find until asking your agent for other recommendations.
3. How do you determine if I'm qualified to buy a home?
You would be surprised at how rarely agents complete your qualifications at the beginning. Even so, it is important to have this done up front, so you know how much you can afford and will be in a place to make a strong offer when you find your perfect home.
4. How do you provide information on the homes for sale that meet my criteria?
Your agent should have a system that automatically updates you when new homes meeting your criteria come on the market.
5. How will you negotiate for me?
This is IMPORTANT! Pay close attention to whether your agent has any specialized training in negotiations. The CNE (Certified Negotiation Expert) designation is one area that sets your agent apart from the rest.
A CNE professional has been trained in advanced negotiation techniques and approaches. This training enables your agent to better help you achieve your goals. Your CNE professional will be able to handle your real estate negotiations with skill and excellence. You can be confident you'll get the very best results when you choose a CNE professional!
6. How do you know what is the best value for me?
An agent should take the time to consult with you extensively in order to ascertain your preferences. From there your agent will establish your criteria and what homes are of the best value for your money.
7. How will you guide me through the lending and title process?
Make sure an agent has relationships with companies that can offer you good service and some discounts (if possible). Also make sure the agent has immediate knowledge of what typical costs are.
8. Can you sell us any type of home - new, resale, foreclosed and short sales?
Most agents will answer "yes", but be sure to follow-up with questions about specific areas and builders.
There are many more questions you can ask - this is just a sampling. If you would like further information, please let us know by clicking here. |