Real estate transactions are among the largest you’ll ever make, and a great real estate agent is crucial to helping you navigate this process. Many people select their agents based on a recommendation from a friend or family member, which isn’t necessarily a bad idea. However, you should also do some research on your own to ensure you select the best possible agent for your needs. Here are some things to look for in an agent:

Meet with several potential agents before making a decision. Ask questions to understand their experience, work style and how they might support you in the home-buying or selling process. It’s also important to understand what kind of services they offer and whether their fees are negotiable. You should also discuss the timelines for buying or selling a home, as the process can be lengthy.

An experienced real estate agent will have a lot of transaction history under their belt, and this is important to consider when selecting an agent. You want someone who knows the ins and outs of your local market, has a solid track record of success and can guide you through a successful transaction. For more info https://www.windycitysolutions.com/

 

When meeting with potential agents, be sure to ask them how long they’ve been in the business and if they specialize in your type of property. It’s also a good idea to find out how often they follow the market, whether they are full-time or part time and whether they’re working on both sides of the real estate transaction (buyer’s side and seller’s side).

One of the most important things to consider when choosing an agent is their saleto-list ratio. This metric shows how well an agent has been performing in their markets, and it can give you a sense of their negotiation skills. Ideally, you’ll want an agent with a sale-to-list ratio that is at or over 100%.

Another important factor to consider when choosing an agent is their level of communication. You should be able to reach out to your agent with any question or concern, and they should respond promptly. You should never have to wait more than a day for your agent to return a phone call or text message. Additionally, your agent should be able to provide you with accurate information about homes in your price range and be honest when describing properties that aren’t right for you.

 

Lastly, you should always discuss the real estate commission with your agent before selecting them. Traditionally, the seller pays the real estate commission, but this is negotiable. You don’t want to choose an agent who will charge you a high commission fee, as this could significantly reduce the value of your home purchase or sale. In addition, you should always ask your agent if they offer buyer agent commission rebates (which are only offered by some agents). If an agent does not offer buyer agent commission rebates, it may be best to select a different agent.