Saturday 31 May 2014

How To Choose A Real Estate Agent

By Pammy McGrath


If the time has come for you to start looking for a new home or perhaps you are relocating to a new city, you should begin the search by contacting a realtor. While you might be considering buying a home without a real estate agent, there are some very good reasons to hire this professional.

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.

If you don't have an agent yet, you should spend some time figuring out which local agent might be best for you. It's always a good idea to ask people you trust for a recommendation. If you don't get any good suggestions, call up a few agents, spend some time talking to each one and select one with whom you feel comfortable.

Asking some questions is a great way to discover whether or not you have found the right agent. You will want to know about their years of experience and qualifications, but also you will want to learn about their expertise with the local market and how much they know about the area in general. This latter knowledge is particularly important if you are moving somewhere new and you aren't already familiar with the area. A realtor can help you find information about schools and even make recommendations about local businesses, doctors, contractors and other professionals.

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.

When you are ready to search for homes for sale in Fredericksburg or homes for sale in Kerrville, consider calling on the experience team at Nixon Real Estate. They specialize in helping clients buy and sell Texas Hill Country real estate with 30-plus years of experience. They can find any type of home you need within any size of budget.




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