WHAT TO ASK A PROSPECTIVE AGENT:
- Can you provide the names of 3 people you have worked with whom I can contact for references?
- Do you work mainly with buyers or sellers?
- How long have you been in the real estate business and do you work full or par time?
- How familiar are you with the neighborhood where I will be looking?
- How many clients are you currently working with?
WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN AN AGENT:
- It's important for your agent to have a thorough understanding of your specific needs and a true willingness to meet those needs. This includes a familiarity and knowledge of the neighborhoods you're interested in as well as homes that fit into your price range.
- Look for an agent with ties to their profession beyond just having a license. Have they furthered their realtor education by obtaining certifications and designations? Are they involved in their local realtor association? These are just a few of the ways a realtor can stay current and up to date with market trends, new laws, rules and changes that may affect the purchase or sale of your home.
FIVE TIPS FOR SMOOTHER HOME BUYING:
Interest rates are at a record low which makes this an opportune time to buy a home. There are a few things to keep in mind before you begin searching for your future place.
- Get a mortgage pre-approval letter from a lender in the amount you plan on spending. You will be more attractive to sellers because the letter shows you have the financial means to purchase a home. Determine how much you can afford to spend before you go out looking. Work with your lender to accurately set your limit on income vs purchase price.
- Check out as many homes as possible in the neighborhood you are interested in. Once you find a home you like, have your agent ask questions and determine factors affecting its purchase price including information on relevant repairs and upgrades. Make sure to clear up if items like swing sets, appliances and fixtures are staying with the home.
- Be a fair negotiator. Don't bid too high or too low from the outset. Rather, have your agent create a Comparative Market Analysis to determine the current value of like properties in the area. Your agent must not go further than 6 months back to help gather the information.
- Don't be afraid of insulting the seller. Your agent will be presenting the offer to either the sellers agent or right to the seller if at all possible. If the amount you are offering is based on the information gathered when doing the CMA you have a better chance that negotiations will not stall.
- Don't be overly demanding. The fewer contingencies, the more attractive you are going to be compared to other buyers. Get everything in writing. If something is INcluded or EXcluded be certain that's clearly written on the contract.