Choose a Real Estate Agent
Buying a property requires making many important financial decisions, understanding complex issues and completing a lot of paperwork. It helps to have an expert in your corner when undertaking such a large purchase. We can guide you through this process, and also provide you with access to property listings before they hit the general market.
Here are some factors to consider when choosing your real estate professional:
- Look for a full-time agent
- It's important to find a full time agent that is dedicated to helping you buy or sell your home. It is also important to make sure that you choose an agent who has experience completing transactions similar to yours. Some transactions may be more difficult than others and you will want someone with the knowledge and background necessary to ensure a smooth transaction. At Costa Real Estate, our agents have a plethora of knowledge and a diverse portfolio.
- Choose an agent who listens attentively to your needs and concerns
- Your needs are important for your home and your future. Make sure you find an agent that listens and is attentive, understanding, and patient. You will need to have an agent that you are comfortable with.
- Ask the agent how much time they will have for you
- Real estate is not a full time job. There may be a nice for showings, to write offers, to negotiate, etc. in the evenings or on weekends. Real estate is not simply a 9a-5p job. Make sure that the agent that you have working with you has the availability and accessibility to meet your needs.
- Does the agent return your calls promptly?
- Time is money when attempting to buy a property, and you need to know your agent is going to be on top of things!
- Ask for a list of properties they have sold or a list of references.
- Do your research on the agent. Do they have a list of properties that they have sold? Can you find references or testimonials about them that are good? If they are a new agent are they involved in a training or mentoring program where they are learning with an experienced agent?
- Ask the agent about their credentials and education
- A good agent with continually strive to improve and gain knowledge of the latest real estate trends and hold the highest designations in their respective fields of expertise. Specific designations can include Accredited Buyer's Representatives, Accredited Land Consultants, Certified Commercial Investment Members, Certified Property Specialists, Certified Property Manager, Certified Real Estate Brokerage Manager, Certified Residential Specialist, Counselor of Real Estate, General Accredited Appraiser, NAR's Green Designation, Graduate, Realtor Institute, Performance Management Network, Realtor Association Certified Executive, Residential Accredited Appraiser, Seller Representative Specialist, Society of Industrial and Office Realtors, and Seniors Real Estate Specialists. Realtors can also earn certifications in Diversity, Broker Price Opinion Resource, Real Estate Team Specialist, Digital Marketing: Social Media, e-Pro, Inside Sales Agent, Luxury Homes, Military Relocation, Pricing Strategy Advisory, Real Estate Investing, Real Estate Negotiating Expert, Resort and Second Home Property Specialist, Short Sales and Foreclosures, and Smart Homes.
- Interview a few agents
- It is important to have an agent that you can have a good working relationship with. You will need to trust your agent and know that they are working within your best interest. The agent also needs to be familiar with the area(s) that you are interested in. Make sure to interview a few agents so that you can find the right fit!
Click on a link below to learn more about the home buying process.