We all know that feeling of searching for that one perfect match who understands exactly what we need – especially when it comes to finding the right realtor. Many factors affect your choice from local experience to the realtor’s personality. Whether you get realtor recommendations from family or find them online, it’s key to chat with a few. Look for someone you vibe with, who’s experienced, knows the market well, and communicates clearly.
Here are 7 important questions to ask realtors before hiring them in 2024:
1. What Is Your Experience with My Specific Real Estate Needs?
With so many areas of real estate, you want to work with a residential resale realtor in your local market. If you’d like, you can also niche down to someone who has expertise in buying a condo, townhouse, waterfront property, or even a duplex.
2. How Do You Communicate with Clients?
Some agents prefer email or text messages, while others may use phone calls or face-to-face meetings. Your preferred communication style aligns with theirs. Ideally, the agent should be available on call when an active deal’s going on or otherwise, get back to you within the same day.
3. How Many Clients Are You Currently Representing?
The number of clients an agent juggles can really affect how much time and attention they can give you. If they’re swamped, they might not be able to focus on your needs as much as you’d like. On the flip side, if they’re not that busy, it could be a sign they’re either new to the game or not very successful. But don’t let that scare you off from working with a newbie. What’s important is their sincerity and eagerness to land you a great deal.
4. Can You Help Me Find Other Professionals?
Depending on whether you’re a buyer or a seller, a real estate agent should provide you with additional services like moving, decluttering, and professional videography and photography. On top of that, they should have a network of mortgage brokers, home inspectors, and contractors that you can access at exclusive rates.
5. What’s Your Strategy for Negotiating Deals in a Competitive Market?
Your real estate agent should consider negotiation as their top skill. Their ability to advocate on your behalf, solve problems before they reach you, and handle pressure will directly impact your buying choice.
6. Can You Share a Time When a Deal Didn’t Go as Planned and How You Handled It?
Real estate transactions can be unpredictable, and how a realtor handles challenges is important. Their response will tell you about their experience, adaptability, and how they communicate under pressure.
7. How Do You Stay Informed About the Latest Real Estate Laws and Regulations?
As a realtor, they should keep up to date with real estate laws and regulations. Their commitment to ongoing education is a proof of their passion towards their profession.
Keep in mind, there’s no such thing as a silly or pointless question. It’s my job as your realtor to ensure you feel completely at ease and have all the information you need, with no room for guesswork.
If you’re planning to buy your first home, I’m here to guide you every step of the way. I’m Catherine Nacar, a Brampton-based realtor with a solid legal background, which I leverage to secure the best possible deals for my clients. Let’s start this journey together—book a free consultation with me today.