Home ownership is at the heart of the American Dream, and finding the right realtor is a critical step in turning that dream into a reality. The right real estate agent can make the process of buying or selling a home smoother, easier, and faster than expected.
Purchasing or a selling a home is a significant milestone, which is why it’s so important to work with a real estate agent that you feel comfortable with and connected to. Before you find the home of your dreams, you have to find the realtor of your current reality. Here’s how:
Ask around
Social media and other forms of digital communication make it easier than ever for real estate agents to post recently listed homes for sale and for homeowners and buyers to browse real estate listings. And while these are excellent ways for both real estate agents and home buyers or sellers to engage, word of mouth remains an extremely relevant effective means of referral. Ask family, friends, coworkers, and other members of a social network is an excellent way to find a trusted realtor.
Go to a few open houses
Open houses are not only fun and exciting to go to, but they’re a great, no-pressure way for prospective home buyers to meet each other. Attending open houses not only gives home buyers a chance to see the property, but it also provides an excellent opportunity for them to see how the real estate agent conducts business. Are they approachable and friendly? Do they seem professional, knowledgeable, and sincere? Take note of how the real estate agent engages visitors.
Pay attention to neighborhood signs
Remember to pay close attention to listing signs posted in and around your neighborhood, especially when they are posted and when they are removed. This can be an indicator of how quickly the home is sold and can give you an idea of how effective the realtor is. Keep in mind however, that not all real estate agents post sold signs immediately, especially those who have a large client pool. Staying connected within your current and prospective neighborhood can you help find a realtor that meets your needs.
What’s the difference between a house and a home? Furthermore, what’s the difference between a realtor and a person who coordinates the sale or purchase of a property? Although it may difficult to provide a clear cut answer to these questions, sentiment plays an important role. Feelings of comfort and trust are what separates a house from a home and a realtor from a salesperson. When searching for right realtor, always be sure to trust your gut and find the person that makes you feel the most at home.