How to find the right realtor for you

5 questions to ask your realtor before buying

Searching for your first home or a new home can be time consuming and stressful. Whether you’re working on a mortgage pre-approval or scanning the MLS listings for upcoming open houses, the hunt for the perfect property takes time. Thankfully, there’s a way to avoid becoming overwhelmed with real estate requirements – and for many, it starts with a little professional help.

“Buyer’s agents” work with homebuyers, scouring listings for the perfect home. Like a personal shopper, a buyer’s agent shows you a wide variety of inventory without pushing you into a decision. His or her job is to show you the options and provide you with the support you need to make a final decision.

Of course, when it comes to looking out for your own interests, you’re the best person for the job. To that end, you want to make sure you select the right realtor to help out with your house hunt. Here are three questions to ask about the home-buying process:

1. Can I talk to one of your previous clients?

   Buying a home is a big commitment. It’s important that you have an experienced realtor in your corner to help with important decisions. Of course your agent is going to refer you to a satisfied customer, but it can still be helpful to talk to that client about their experience with your potential realtor. Can the agent be reached quickly? Does he or she respond to phone calls, emails, text messages? A third party opinion will help you understand what it will be like working hand-in-hand with your agent.

2. How do you find listings?

   Any savvy home buyer can surf the web and pull up public listings. But what about the hidden properties? The ones that aren’t officially on the market, but are still very much available. That’s where a buyer’s agent can really add value. Realtors often have access to the listings you can’t see, thanks to a network of former clients and colleagues.

3. Can you recommend a landscaper/lawyer/contractor?

   Part of being a good buyer’s agent is knowing other experts in the housing industry. Whether it’s a friendly lawyer or a dependable handyman, your realtor should be able to recommend the right man (or woman) for the job. You don’t want to just hire a realtor, you want to hire a realtor who comes with a problem-solving team.

Two more questions to ask after you’ve hired your realtor

1. What do you think?

   Buyer’s agents ultimately want to sell you a home. As such, chances are your agent will show you a number of fantastic properties right off the bat. As a home buyer, it’s easy to fall in love with every property you see. That’s why it’s helpful to ask your realtor for her honest opinion. She may see potential in the layout or neighbourhood you may not have considered.

2. What about the resale value?

   It’s your agent’s job to keep you grounded throughout the home-buying process. Sure, it’s fun to dream about extravagant renovations and additions, but at the end of the day you need to be realistic about your wants and needs. Make sure that you always ask your realtor about the pluses and minuses of a property. Is the home in an up-and-coming neighbourhood? Will it have resale potential? Even the most beautiful homes have flaws; it’s your agent’s job to help you uncover and understand them.

Finding a fit

Finding the right buyer’s agent can have a huge impact on your first-time home buying or new home buying experience. Make sure you take the time to find someone who’s dedicated to helping you make the right purchasing decision.