How To Choose A Real Estate Agent

By Pammy McGrath


If you are getting ready to search for a new home to purchase, you might be tempted to work on this task without the help of a realtor. However, this can be a mistake because a realtor truly can make the home buying process a great deal easier.

These days it is pretty easy to go online and find lots of great homes for sale, so you might think that a realtor is unnecessary. However, this real estate agent is your advocate and works to ensure that you get the best possible deal on the home you choose as well as helping you through the inspection and escrow processes. Real estate agents also have excellent contacts within the real estate market and often know about homes that are not yet on the market or were recently taken off the market, where the owner might be willing to sell. Since commissions typically are paid from the sale of the home and out of the seller's profits, you really have little to lose.

Perhaps you already have a great agent in mind but if not, ask co-workers, neighbors, or friends for a good recommendation. You also could choose a few different realtors and spend some time talking with them to gauge who seems to be the best possible real estate agent for you.

There are a few questions that you probably should ask your agent. For instance, you will want to know how long he or she has been in the real estate business. You also will want to know a bit about your agent's experience level in the area in which you want to buy. You will want to know how long they have been selling homes in the area, as well as how long they have lived in town. If you are relocating to a new city, this knowledge will be especially important for you.

It is very important to feel comfortable with your agent. This needs to a person you can really talk to and express what you need in a home. If an agent sets up viewings at homes that are in neighborhoods you dislike or the houses are far too expensive or just don't suit your tastes, this is either the wrong agent for you or you need to more clearly communicate your house shopping goals. Be sure you provide a list of must-have items, a concrete budget and some information about what you really dislike, as well.

For those getting ready to search for Kerrville real estate, Fredericksburg real estate or any Texas Hill Country real estate, consider using an agent at Nixon Real Estate. This Fredericksburg real estate firm has been helping clients find great Texas Hill Country homes for sale for three decades and they are experts in all aspects this popular region of Texas.




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