Buying a Home? Ask Your Agent These Important Questions
Edie Israel
After years of executive sales and marketing experience as well as entrepreneurial success, Edie entered into the real estate market of Southern Calif...
After years of executive sales and marketing experience as well as entrepreneurial success, Edie entered into the real estate market of Southern Calif...
When buying a home, it’s important to have an experienced real estate broker or agent on your side.
The legal and financial realities of a real estate transaction can affect your life for decades. A licensed Realtor® is the single most important element of a successful transaction, and using one is the most effective way to protect your interests.
When you set out to purchase a new home, use this handy list of questions to ask so you can select the ideal agent for your needs.
Are You a Realtor®?
Lead with this question and you can quickly identify those agents and brokers who are members in good standing with the National Association of Realtors®, or NAR.
Realtors® have pledged their commitment to abide by NAR’s strict code of ethics. Adherents ensure fair and ethical dealings with all parties and swear a fiduciary duty to you, the client.
Being a member of NAR is also the only way an agent can participate in the Multiple Listing Service (MLS), a necessary tool for buying and selling real estate in any location.
If you interview an agent who is not a Realtor®, move on to your next candidate!
Is Real Estate Your Career, or a Part-Time Job?
Although many part-time agents are experienced and capable, look for a Realtor® who has made this noble pursuit his or her career.
If your agent holds down a traditional day job and works in the real estate industry to supplement his or her income, you may experience a lag in communication as well as scheduling conflicts.
Today’s competitive real estate market requires home buyers and their agents to move quickly when a great property hits the market. A full-time realty professional can facilitate this type of quick action.
Full-time agents also have a more in-depth involvement with the industry and local market.
Tell Me about Your Team and Local Resources
When buying a home in Yorba Linda or any other location, you will need a village to ensure a smooth transaction. Look for a Realtor® who can recommend local mortgage brokers or bankers, home inspectors and other important third-party consultants.
It’s also helpful if you select a team to assist with your purchase, rather than a lone agent. Realtors® have busy, demanding schedules, but if they have a team in place, you will always be able to reach someone when you have questions.
What Is Your Client Communication Policy?
Speaking of questions, ask prospective brokers how they handle client communication.
If you prefer the old-school approach of phone calls and face-to-face meetings, you may want to avoid those agents who rely heavily on email and text communications. Likewise, if you prefer to handle everything electronically, make sure the agent you select is up to speed with today’s technology.
Don’t hesitate to ask prospective agents what their average turnaround time is to respond to clients’ emails and phone messages. Remember, time is of the essence when you’re buying a new home!
The Edie Israel Team understands how important it is to provide all of the necessary ingredients for a smooth and successful transaction. Our experienced team of Realtors® is always standing by to answer your questions and ensure you find the house of your dreams.
Contact the Israel Team today if you plan on buying a home in the Southern California area.