Meeting with a REALTOR®

Buying or selling your home is one of the most important decisions you’ll ever make in your life. It is important that you choose an agent that works in your best interest at all times. Below are questions I encourage you to ask any real estate agents you are considering representing you either as a buyer or a seller:

“Are you a REALTOR®?”

Not all agents are REALTORS®. REALTORS® belong to the National Association of REALTORS®, the largest professional organization in the country. REALTORS® adhere to a strict Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice. REALTORS® also pay dues that go towards lobbying for the interests of property owners throughout the country. I am a proud card-carrying REALTOR®.

“How long have you been a real estate agent?”

You want somebody who has a track record of accomplishment. The more transactions, the more problems the agent has solved and the more industry professionals the agent knows to call upon to solve those problems. I have been a real estate agent since 2006 and have helped dozens of buyers and sellers find a place to call home.

“Are you a full time real estate agent?”

You need someone out there representing you full-time, learning the inventory and learning about your competition if selling. I believe that in order to fully represent my clients, anything less than full-time just doesn’t cut it.

“What certifications and designations do you hold?”

A designation represents a commitment to ongoing education and improvement. I hold a Master Certified Negotiation Expert Certification and my Seniors Real Estate Specialist Designation from the National Association of REALTORS®.

“What specific marketing systems will you use to sell my home?”

You don’t want an agent who is just going to put up a “For Sale” sign in your yard, put the listing on the MLS and hope for a buyer.  You need an agent with an aggressive approach to marketing which includes everything from the quality of photography to their print marketing campaign; how they let the neighbors know about your listing, open houses, and of course, a strategic online marketing plan. You can take a look at an overview of my system on my Seller Services page <link> and I would be happy to present my system in-person when we meet.

“What specific search systems do you have in place to help in my home search?”

Anyone can put their name into a search listing function and send you new listings.  What you want is an agent who actively searches for what you want based on your specific requests. If a property that meets your needs is not available, a determined agent will scour expired or cancelled listings and even put out the call to homeowners in areas you are interested in. You may also want an agent who will preview the properties before sending them to you depending on how fast properties are selling and if time allows. You can take a look at an overview of my system on my Buyer Services page <link> and I would be happy to discuss your custom home search plan.

 “How will you keep me informed?”

This is a great question because you’ll be surprised at how many agents don’t have a good answer for it.  The correct answer is, “How do you want to be kept informed?”  I look forward to working with you to determine a communication system that is best for you!

I would be pleased to answer these questions for you in greater depth. The goal is to find the best agent that fits your personality, home buying or selling style, and will vigilantly look out for your needs throughout the process. I encourage you to ask questions to help you find the best fit for your situation and style!