Buying or selling real estate is one of the most important financial actions in our life, so it is just as imperative to choose the right agent to help you through the process. Whether it is your first home or just another investment property, the right real estate agent can make all the difference.
Included below are the 10 things everyone should know before they buy or sell real estate:
1. It’s important to hire an experienced agent that can get you an accepted contract. What does this mean? Well, the limited inventory in today’s market has created a very competitive environment for buyers and multiple offer situations on a single home are now a normal part of real estate. You want to hire an agent that is experienced in these bidding wars so that your contract will be the one that gets accepted.
2. If you are looking to buy a home, get pre-approved for a mortgage before you look at any potential homes. This will give you a clear understanding of what you can afford and save you from the disappointment that comes with looking at a home that’s out of your price range. As well, your Realtor can recommend lenders that have a strong track record in providing excellent service and rates.
3. As a buyer, it’s a good idea to identify the top five features that matter most to you. It could be where the home is located or the number of bedrooms – whatever they are – it’s good to know them before you start looking for a new home.
4. Your real estate agent is there to help you! So be open and honest with them about what you like and don’t like about the homes they show you. Whether it’s positive or negative feedback, the input helps the agent to more accurately find what you want to buy.
5. If you love it, chances are others buyers will too. This is especially true for nice homes that are priced to sell. If it’s priced right, then it’s going to be popular. There are a lot of buyers in the market right now, waiting to pounce on a good deal, so it’s important to be prepared to move quickly and make an offer right away.
6. If you are looking to sell your home, it’s important to hire an agent that knows how to negotiate a multiple offer situation. This is the part of the process where experience is essential, as your agent will help advise on the different aspects of each offer and how those affect your goals and bottom line.
7. When selling your home, you need to hire an agent that will build a selling strategy around your particular goals. This could be a time frame (where you need to sell your home and buy another one at the same time) or a desire to wait until you find the right home.
8. Communication is a vital aspect in any relationship and it’s essential that your real estate agent is effective in this area. It’s important that your agent is available and responsive to your needs and that they provide frequent updates regarding feedback from showings, updates on potential buyers and market trends in your neighborhood.
9. While it’s a must for the buyer and/or seller to have a good relationship with their agent, it’s also important for your agent to have a good rapport with other agents in the community. This will ensure a smooth and successful closing for both parties.
10. Last but certainly not least, any prospective buyer or seller should hire an agent that works full-time, not part-time. Selling your home isn’t some sort of side job, it’s a big deal. Your real estate agent needs to be dedicated to seeing the process through.
Following these suggestions will better prepare you for buying or selling a home. If you are looking for a full-time, experienced and connected real estate agent, then Emily Freeman is ready to help you.
Emily Freeman
Keller Williams Realty Peachtree Road
(cell) 770-366-8876
(office) 404-419-3500
(fax) 404-419-3501
emilyfreeman@kw.com
www.AtlantaRealty411.com
