Asking a Realtor how to choose a Realtor is an interesting question. In purchasing real estate, the words location, location, location stand out in my mind. But, in choosing a Realtor, there are many other words that come to mind: knowledge, negotiation, skill and time to name a few. I am often asked to locate Realtors out of the area for clients. What I look for in a Realtor is fairly simple.
First and foremost, it must be someone who speaks in terms my client understands and can appreciate the vision of the client - someone who will take time to hear what the client thinks and what they are looking for. I would expect that the Realtor might offer other suggestions that my clients hadn’t considered.
I look for someone who has lived in the area for awhile. Why? To understand the neighborhoods, both the benefits and the downfalls, in order to know what the climate might be particular to a specific area. This assistance can only be based on knowledge and experience.
A Realtor with an understanding of construction is important. The last thing someone wants is a Realtor who can’t tell a wood shake roof from rolled roofing. The knowledge of how a home is built is invaluable as well.
If my client is dealing with an historical home, a Realtor who has knowledge and experience with historic homes and understands the idiosyncracies that make them such a prize is important.
I would definitely require someone who has an understanding of real estate transaction from both sides, i.e., someone who has personally sold and purchased a home.
If you are considering investment property, make sure that the Realtor owns an investment property or two so they can fill you in on the ins and outs of being a landlord. Nothing speaks to knowledge like personal experience.
In today’s real estate community, designations - initials following a Realtor’s name - show they’ve completed a course of specialty education and indicate a high level of commitment to staying current with the real estate market.
If I were referring commercial property, I would look to one of the CCIM designees in our area. Commercial property is completely different than residential and requires a different toolbox. Very similarly, if you want to purchase a ranch or rural property, you may want to contact a Realtor specializing in that field. I personally keep up on the residential market in Humboldt County, statewide, and nationally, but quite honestly couldn’t keep up with the commercial market as well.
Above all, when choosing a Realtor, ask yourself, “Does this Realtor fit my needs?” You will be working with this person through a fairly complex process. You may have three or four conversations a day with them. If you don’t relate to one another, you are creating a lot of roadblocks for yourself before you have even begun the process.
I would also suggest clarifying with the Realtor that they have the time to see you through the entire process and are willing to dedicate their time to fulfill your expectations and requirements.
There are 405 Realtors in the Humboldt County area. I would recommend asking a friend or co-worker who they purchased their property through and hoow was their experience? Then call the agent or agents and ask to have a meeting with them.
Whether you are buying or selling a home, it is important to interview the Realtor and make sure that there is a personality fit. I always look at the relationship with my clients as a partnership, and as with every partnership, there has to be positive communication.
Please remember that the best Realtors show their worth after a contract is in place. Can they “keep the deal together”? Make sure your Realtor is specific, detailed and communicative with you; is firm, but cooperative; strong, but compatible. Look for a great negotiator.