What should you expect from a Realtor?

Remember the days when your friends and family had the perfect person they wanted to set you up on a blind date with? They thought they had found your soul mate and all you had to do was call them up and ask them out. You may have felt nervous, excited, anxious, or all of the above. You could have chosen to go running from the room or you were daring and went on that date which led to the greatest story you ever told. Either way, dating can be rough and finding the best Realtor for you may feel the same way. So, although your friends and family have referred a Realtor, listen to your gut and find the perfect fit. Here are some tips to find out if a second meeting is in the future and if you’re signing with the right Realtor for you.

First and foremost, find a Realtor that listens to your needs. Make a list of things that are non-negotiable and make sure the Realtor understands them. For example, if you want to be within 10 miles of your office in Chandler but the Realtor only wants to show you houses in North Scottsdale, they are wasting your time and theirs. When it comes to the biggest purchase you may make in your lifetime, it’s important the Realtor is looking after your needs and working to get you what you want. Make sure all parties involved are on the same page.

Secondly, it’s always a benefit when the Realtor is an expert in the area you want to buy or sell in. They typically live and work in a certain area so they know schools, restaurants, styles of houses, businesses, and what the community is offering. This is beneficial to both a Buyer and Seller because the Realtor can comp your house based on information they have lived, worked, and studied the market in. Therefore, one of your questions to every Realtor should be, “what area of the Valley do you specialize in”? A seasoned Realtor will have an answer to this question.

If you are a Seller, always ask up front, “how will you promote my home?” The first look from Buyers is typically on the internet. Make sure your Realtor is putting your house on all of the big search engines – MLS, Zillow, Realtor.com, etc., so they are touching 95% of people looking for a home. Having Open Houses is another important conversation. If you love them or hate them, make sure your Realtor feels the same way. You don’t want to be disappointed if you want an Open House every weekend and your Realtor doesn’t believe in doing them.

Buyers, on your first meeting with a Realtor, not only should you be discussing your housing needs but also your time frame. Do you need to be in a house in 2, 3, or 4 months? How many times a week do you want to be out house hunting? Can you only do weekends? Making sure your Realtor has availability for you is a must.

Lastly, communication! Things are going to happen and surprising challenges are going to arise. An open line of communication with your Realtor is a great asset when you are negotiating buying or selling a house. You should feel comfortable calling your Realtor with any questions, changes, or concerns you have. The lines of communication should be open and honest. This will lead to a positive and good experience for everyone!