When buying or selling real estate, it’s important to have an agent who understands your needs and can negotiate effectively on your behalf. However, not all agents are created equal, and it can be difficult to know which one is right for you. Fortunately, there are several ways to find the perfect real estate agent for your situation, including getting referrals from friends and family or searching online for vetted professionals. In addition, attending open houses can be a great way to meet potential agents and see how they work. Ultimately, the best way to pick a real estate agent is to interview multiple candidates and ask important vetting questions.

How Long Have You Been in Business?

The more experienced a realtor is, the more likely they are to have a good understanding of local market conditions and can negotiate well on your behalf. Ideally, you want an agent who has been in the business for at least five years and is actively engaged in properties within your desired location and price range. Make sure you also check their licensing and credentials to ensure they’re licensed in your state and have no major code of ethics complaints on record. Read more https://www.readysetsellmyhome.com/

Do You Have Any Specializations?

Some agents focus on certain niche markets, such as new construction or working with first-time homebuyers. Others have specialties like short sales or foreclosures, and can use their expertise to help you navigate the complexities of these unique transactions. Similarly, some agents have a strong local network and can introduce you to other industry professionals who may be beneficial to your buying or selling process.

What Is Your Selling Style?

It’s not just the amount of experience an agent has that matters, but also how their personality and approach to real estate matches yours. For example, if you’re looking for an agent to sell your current home, ask the candidate how they typically advertise homes and what their marketing strategy is. You should also find out if they prefer to communicate by phone, email or text, and whether they have assistants who handle some of their client communication.

If you’re in the market to buy, ask the agent how they would go about finding a property that fits your criteria. You should also learn if they offer services such as home warranty protection, which can be helpful for buyers. Finally, if you’re considering dual agency (where the same agent represents both the buyer and seller) or designated agency (where different agents within the same firm represent each party), make sure you discuss these options with the agent and understand how they’d manage your transaction.

Once you’ve vetted the candidates, interview multiple agents and compare their answers to determine which is the best fit for your buying or selling situation. In the end, you’ll be glad you took the time to find the right professional for your next home sale or purchase! This article was written by Jennifer Brozic, a freelance financial services writer for NerdWallet.