Matthew Hick asked:


If you are in the market to sell your home, it is important to choose a real estate agent who will do his or her best job and provide the most excellent services to you. After all, you are looking for quality, honesty, timeliness, and dedication. So how do you go weeding out the good real estate agents from the bad real estate agents? There are a few ways that you can do this.

To start with, you will want to know how long the real estate agent has been in practice, and if their licensure is kept up to date. Several years of practice under their belt has given them a world of experience to make a good sale. Also, check what hours they work. If they don’t work nights or weekends, then this schedule will fail to accommodate most working people in the mindset to buy. A part-time realtor may not have the time to adequately market your property.

In the line of work experience, find out how many properties they have sold in the last year, and the average sale price of them. Ask them what percent of their listings have sold, and if they can provide you with references from homeowners, whose houses have sold, and those who haven’t. It is important to find an agent who is willing to disclose facts. If they are a good agent, they won’t have anything to hide. Find out how many current listings they have. The fewer the better for you, since an overloaded real estate agent won’t have the time to devote to your sale. If they have a full load already, this is the time to say goodbye.

Since advertising is key to selling your house, find out if they will commit to a certain amount of money spent each month to this area. An unadvertised house will be too unnoticeable to sell. Request a thirty or sixty-day contract agreement time. This will provide the realtor time to sell, but gives you an opportunity to move on if you are unhappy with them. If they refuse, by all means question why. You really don’t want to be locked into an agreement for years, only to find out the real estate agent is not a good one. Also find out if the property will be on the Multi Listing Service, and what their policies on open houses are. These are all key items in getting your house in the viewing area of potential buyers.

Question the real estate agent as to how long the property will take to sell at suggested price. Your house may be worth the amount advertised, but quite possibly the area will not get you that price. You need honesty in this matter. Most importantly, do not overprice your house. You may not get any potential buyers attention with this maneuver.

The real estate agent will be your home’s best opportunity to be sold. It is important to ask questions, and pay attention to detail, when making this selection. You need someone who is able to provide care, time and effort in selling your house. Remember, you are entrusting this individual to handle probably one of the biggest financial transactions of your life. Making the right choice could be the difference between that “SOLD” sign going up or not.



Holly

set apart asked:


have gotten plastic surgery?

I have many friends in the business of real estate and each one of them have had a nip tuck or other.

Are you not allowed to age if you’re in the real estate business?…
Rita: Some of my friends are males who have also had work done… this is a sad industry if a good real estate agent has to look young. I would rather an experienced older aged person.

I am in California if that makes any difference.

Sandra

Doughboy1993 asked:


Could anyone please tell me any good real estate agents out there who might be selling a bakery/food service building in the Carolina’s? Web sites would be great.
Either one of the Carolina’s… But I guess lets say North.

Gina

clint asked:


The Value of a Great Real Estate Agent

 

Real Estate Agents. Like any business there are some that know less than you do, but there are also many agents that are excellent in their trade and worth every dollar of their paid commission. Please do NOT look at what they are earning, but rather what valuable services they can provide for the Seller.

 

 I can guarantee you that if you offer a low commission, it may not sell the property and or get any lookers… and you will REGRET it. Would you spend time on a project knowing that you were not getting paid, and or earn a much less commission than another Seller may offer? Not with a good agent!

 

A good Real Estate Agent knows what the properties are worth, and can also recommend what repairs and or improvements that may be needed to get it sold. Do your homework. Do NOT engage a Real Estate Agent that will work for a low listing fee, or talk you into a very high listing price.

 

They work part time, or that are someone’s friend or relation that you cannot openly voice your opinion. You will regret it later if not sooner! If it is a short sale, no problem, the lender(s) will pay a fair commission, usually 6%, and many good Agents have experience in representing Seller(s) in these negotiations. You do NOT have unlimited time to sell the property and it must be done quickly and professionally. Hire the best, pay a high commission and have NO regrets!

 

 

 

To learn more about the amazing value of real estate agents, please visit our website or contact us for more in depth information. Have questions…please contact us.



Eileen

mystery asked:


In talking with people, the general consensus is that agents are more iterested in having you discount your home so that they can get a quick sale. However, I’m not in the business of giving away my house……since I paid for it. Anyways, does anyone know a good real estate company and/or real estate agent servicing the Lowell, Massachusetts area—-who will actually WORK, to wit: open houses, feedback, etc……..Thanks.

Megan

Prudence Wong asked:


There are some people, who feel that a real estate transaction can be carried out without the assistance of a real estate agent. Once I was also thinking like the way you are thinking now. With just one transaction, I have changed my feeling or attitude and I fully convinced that for the best deal, the service of real estate agent is inevitable.

Of course you can get deals without the support of real estate agents, but not the best deal! I am sure you will also change the mindset in a short time.

If you are thinking that you have to pay commission to a real estate agent when you buy a property through him, I can tell you that you may be wrong. It is only the seller who pays the real estate agent. As a buyer, the service of a real estate agent will not add up in your expenses. Avoiding the real estate agent simply means that you are adding up the profit of the seller. Policies of commission may vary from state (or country) to state (country) as well.

When you deal with a real estate agent you should better make sure that he is not charging you any commission from you as a buyer. You can have a dialogue or interview with the agent so that you will be clear about his terms and conditions. And also this will help you to get a primary assessment about the capabilities of the real estate agent as well.

Many real estate agents are out there who work with sellers as well as buyers. There are many real estate agents who work with either with sellers or buyers only.

If you are a potential buyer looking for real estate properties, make sure that the real estate agents you prefer have good experience in working with buyers. Good real estate agents will be there with you until the deal is closed. They will support you during the time of transactions, documentations and approvals.

You can interview the real estate agent to find out whether he is familiar with the programs like down payment assistance. If he is not well versed with such programs, you should not hire him. The agents who do not have familiarity in these types of transactions will not be having much experience as well. So you will not able to get your investment through them.

First step in selecting the best real estate agent should start by making a short list of agents to be interviewed. You can get information about the agents from friends and family members or from lenders. Generally lenders may suggest some agents and mostly they will be agents working with buyers. The recommendation of the lender will be a good choice as they know each other and must have worked earlier together.

The agents who work with the buyers only will be the best option for you, if you are a buyer. Similarly those who work with only sellers will b the best choice for you as a seller. You should discuss with the real estate agents about his fees in the first interview you have with him. This will assure you a transparent deal.

You can ask for a sample contract to see the terms and conditions. You have to make sure the agent will work in favor of you, not for the other party. You should spend much time and efforts to locate a perfect real estate agent; you should not rush in deciding the agent. Make sure that you get an agent who is not a man after money only; he should have a genuine interest in supporting you in the deals.



Justin

Tim Kelly asked:


As we all know that real estate career is well paid, as it involve with high value of property.

However, it is no doubt that good fortune never come from easy work. People who make a lot of money in real estate industry have to work hard, be patient and sometime hope for luck. But how many know that how hard to be a good real estate agent, how expensive, frustrating, and stressful this job can be.

As a general practice, it is commonly known that to become a good real estate agent is difficult but the most difficult is to stay in this business. Real estate agent industry in one of the most job that has high turn over in the USA. Many people go out while many new faces come in.

For some body who already success in real estate business may know that it’s not really easy to become success and maintain in the business. As I am one of the realtor who have some experience in this business and I want to share with you about how we can stay in this business as much as we can. Because I have been in many difficult times in my career life as a real estate agent so I hope my know ledge will be useful for you more or less.

Firstly, and this is probably the most important thing. Good preparation is a key element of success. There is no luck for the good successor and you have to prepare for everything, including prepare for both success and fail time. You have to have a secured plan on what you have to do if you are not get paid for about 2 or 3 months. You may have to have some spared budget during this difficult time as I can guarantee that every success realtor have passed this situation before.

Secondly, looking for some expert in this field who can give you a constant advice. Especially if you are new graduate, find a company that has comprehensive training for new staff. You can not survive without having some initial knowledge. You may also have to find a paid consultant even though there will be some monthly expense for this but I recommend that it worth having.

Thirdly, stick to the basic principle of good seller. Keep finding real estate owners, always find the list and call them or even come to knock the door of their house. Prepare some interesting presentation to business firm in your area. Try to find the way to be known n the community at possible minimum cost. Visit an organisation that has potential or strong influence in the community. This is only some of example that you can follow.

The last, try to be optimistic as much as you can, not thing can make you fail as much as from yourself. Always be reminded that it is never easy to success and all problems have their own solution.



Glenda

Kate Ford asked:


What if you knew how to easily locate the right real estate agent, one that puts your interests first. Use my tips and advice to decrease the stress of buying a home and find the best real estate agent for you.

I certainly understand if you question why I believe I know what constitutes a good real estate agent. I would wonder if I were you.

Here is the answer. For more than 28 years, my husband and I have helped people buy homes. Since I left off being a kid, residential real estate and mortgage financing have occupied my life. I was a licensed real estate agent in the first part of my career and the owner of a mortgage company the last part of my career.

Most people will buy one home, maybe two. Others may purchase an investment or vacation house. In most cases you are going need the services of a qualified real estate agent. And yes, choosing a good real estate agent is crucial.

Instead of listing warnings, do’s and don’ts, allow me to share how I interview and choose a real estate agent.

Number one on my list is to find an individual who makes me feel at ease. Buying a house can be difficult and exhausting at times so why complicate it by employing a real estate broker you don’t feel comfortable with.

It is a shame how many home buyers I observe working with agents who are not matched well to them. The dissatisfaction is discussed for weeks, months and sometimes years after moving into a home.

I believe that buying a home should be fun and exciting. After all it will probably be the most significant and most expensive purchase that you are ever going to make. So why not work with someone that you feel comfortable with since you are likely to be in contact with them on a daily or weekly basis for several months.

Second I am looking for an agent who has my best interests in mind. But how do I know if a real estate broker is truly interested in my personal well being and not simply concerned with making the sale? There are several indications.

Does this agent listen to me? If your agent doesn’t directly address your concerns and questions, this may not be the real estate agent for you.

Does your prospective real estate representative talk first and ask questions later? This is another indication of whether your best interests have been kept in mind. Every great agent listens to what’s on your mind after they ask what is important to you.

A thorough agent will always ask you a lot of questions before ever offering to take you out to view houses. You see, a real estate agent is a valuable asset and they know that your time as well as theirs is valuable too. So they are not going to waste your time showing you houses that you can’t afford or don’t fit your circumstances.

Even though it can feel a little uncomfortable, anticipate a trained agent inquiring into your finances. This is the type of real estate agent I look for.

Some agents give advice without taking into consideration your circumstances. A good agent doesn’t give advice but instead presents options. Your agent should be solution oriented by presenting you with choices that allow you to select what you feel is best for your particular circumstances. Watch for and choose a real estate broker who considers options based on your needs rather than theirs. Above all never feel rushed to make a decision.

High on my list when I interview real estate professionals is watching for individuals who admit when they are unsure of an answer to my question. No matter how experienced a agent, no one has all the answers. So when I ask a question and I hear the words “I don’t know” followed by “but I will find out” it is refreshing. Possessing every answer is not what I care about. That is why I rarely decide on a broker based on age or even experience. A real estate broker with enough enthusiasm and energy to do that little bit extra is who I pick.

Even though it will be your home and a place to live, central to every transaction is money. Although a real estate agent isn’t qualified to approve you for a mortgage, it is still important to be asked about your financial ability such as how much money you have saved for down payment and closing costs.

Top real estate agents know from experience that mortgage financing is the hub of every real estate transaction. As a home buyer, protect yourself by understanding the cost before going out to view houses and especially before you make an offer.

A good agent can help you with this too or you can simply contact a licensed mortgage broker who can prepare a Good Faith Estimate of Closing Costs. If you are comfortable asking your real estate agent, most can refer you to a couple of mortgage brokers for detailed estimates of mortgage costs for your comparison. It is critical that you know what costs to expect before you shop for a house and especially before you make an offer.

Lastly, remember that buying a house is your decision. Take responsibility for your decision by seeking advice from people you like and feel can trust.

I often say when it comes to buying or refinancing a home, it is your house and your mortgage, no one is going to care about it more than you.



Doris

Florin Ciobanu asked:


When purchasing or selling property, the first thing you will want to ask is “How do I find a good real estate agent?” There are many things to consider when looking for a real estate agent.

You do not want someone who has a license from XYZ, or worse yet, someone with no license at all. There are many things to look out for when selecting your future team mate on your quest to finding the perfect home. Listed below are ways to ease into one of the most important deals of your life, buying and selling a home.

A real estate agent is your right hand so to speak when acquiring a home. You should be able to trust this person, reply on them as well as have them understand your needs. Moreover, it is imperative they have the time and energy to dedicate to your search. Asking friends, how do I find a good real estate agent? is a great place to start.

Shortening the List

It comes as no surprise that real estate agents come a dime a dozen. During the time when real estate was booming, everyone thought they could strike it rich in the real estate world. Actually, many did; even the ones who did not know what they were doing. The problem lies in the fact that the market has changed drastically and now those people are lurking in low real estate agent rankings or non-existent.

Watch out for those real estate agents looking to make a quick buck. Do not pay a cent until you have closed the deal. It will be included in closing costs. If you are selling your home and a realtor wants a fee up front, that is your red flag to steer clear of that agent. A realtor’s commission should be based on if they can sell the house; not if they give it their “best” try.

If the real estate agents you are looking to conduct transactions with are always on the phone, never return your calls or even if they do but not timely, ten to one they have too much of a work load as it is. This is a huge sign to show you will not be getting the individualized attention you need. When buying and selling a home, it is all about how your real estate agent works for you; not how hard you have to work to get their attention.

Do they have a track record? The internet is a wonderful tool. If the real estate agent is in touch with the market, they will have a website. They will also have an email that they check regularly. You can research reviews and comments about realtors online through many sources. Type the name of the realtor in the search box and look at results. Typically, you will see about five to ten reviews for a smaller real estate agent and more for larger groups or popular agent.

It is all about how a person markets themselves. Look at the angle they are trying to approach. Are they trying to attract investors or the homeowners? This will tell you a lot about where their head is. Take the time to research other sites and look for more specific information before you decide to select a real estate agent. Read on to answer the most important question, “How do I find a good real estate agent?”



Catherine

diamonddude asked:


I know discriminate is a strong word, but I’ve contacted 2 agents in the last 2 days and none of them respond to me after I tell them that I’m not looking to spend more than 80K. I know it’s a low amount but I’m not looking for a big house.

I’m already pre-approved so I don’t know why they don’t respond to me.

Can anyone recommend a good real estate agent in San Bernardino, CA?

Fernando