H O W T O F I N D T H E B E S T R E A L E S TAT E A G E N T

F O R Y O U

G A RY R I C H E T E L L I

• Trusting someone with the sale of your home is not something to be taken lightly and done nonchalantly.

• By the same token, someone helping you purchase your next home should be a candidate worthy of trust.

• Buying and selling a home is an investment in your future that sets the course for the journey after.

• Hiring anything less than the optimal real estate agent will leave you less than fully satisfied and will waste your time and money.

M A K E S U R E T H E Y ’ R E

Q U A L I F I E D• Before reviewing any candidates,

the first step is to gain an understanding of the different types or qualifications of an agent.

• Anyone who has taken classes and past board exams enough to pass and gain certification is a licensed real estate agent.

• More experienced agents will have a record to show their positive feedback and ethical behavior in line with the National Association of Realtor’s own code of conduct.

Q U A L I F I C AT I O N S

• Individuals licensed and with membership in the NAR can be considered realtors. Most will suggest working with an agent who has received recognition for his professionalism and compliance with ethical codes.

• An individual with experience and education beyond standardized requirements may be called a broker.

B R O K E R S

• Brokers typically complete courses of 180 hours, and have worked longer than three years in the field.

• Brokers are often higher level employees or own their own firms, whereas starting real estate agents typically work under the aegis of a broker.

D O Y O U R R E S E A R C H !

• Trying to find your own agent is a daunting experience. Do your research!

• Just as you wouldn’t be thrilled to trust an unknown name with your health or finances, you shouldn’t be too eager to hire the first agent that presents himself.

• It is a good idea to ask around your social circle, or post an internet query stating you are in search of a reputable agent.

K N O W T H E I R P E R S O N A L I T Y

• It is preferred that the agent you hire be one passed along from a friend whose opinion (or home) you trust.

• Agents have different skill-sets as some are more charismatic salesmen, and others are pragmatic purchasers.

• Some are more involved in the sale, others in communication. Find the agent whose specialty suits your needs.

T H A N K Y O U F O R W AT C H I N G ! – G A R Y R I C H E T E L L I

S O U R C E S :

• http://www.dailyastorian.com/how-to-choose-a-real-estate-agent-da-ap-webfeeds-news-real-estateedb637bad3914895af246b1354701df0