How to Choose your Vancouver Real Estate Agent – from your Vancouver Mortgage Broker
April 15, 2013 by Adil Virani
Filed under Home Series, Latest News, Latest Rates, Mortgage FAQ, Recent News, Selling Your Home, Vancouver Mortgage Broker
How to Choose your Vancouver Real Estate Agent – from your Vancouver Mortgage Broker
Realtors are trained and licensed professionals, but like any professional they are not all the same. Whether you are buying or selling a home in Vancouver, their services can be invaluable.
Although you might be tempted to go the FSBO (For Sale by Owner) route, there are many traps and obstacles that could unavoidably confront you as either the seller or the buyer. A savvy real agent can help you avoid all these pitfalls and make your efforts more productive and help save you money even in spite of the realtor’s commission.
Some of these pitfalls could include undisclosed structural damage, fraudulent sellers, overpaying on a home or getting less than what you deserved, legal complications and other issues.
What to Consider When Choosing a Realtor
You always want a realtor who is willing to work well with you. Sometimes the chemistry just doesn’t work, so here are a few tips to help you select that ideal realtor who can either help you flip that home quickly or help find that ideal dream home.
Ask People You Know
One of the easiest ways to find a great realtor is to talk to your family, friends and co-workers about realtors they’ve used. Ask these people what they liked and even what they disliked about the realtor they used. Ideally, you want to use one who lives close by in your locale or in the area where you want buy a home. This way they are more available and know their market.
Does the Realtor Have a Team?
You want a realtor who is preferably already established and has a track record. Realtors who have a team they work with such as a buyer specialist and an administrative staff then you should be able to feel more comfortable about the buying or selling process running smoothly and efficiently.
Do They Work Within your PriceRange?
Some realtors prefer to specialize only in the high end market. If they don’t then they aren’t likely going to go out of their way to give you the service and attention that you require.
What is Their Track Record?
You want a realtor with a proven track record. Don’t be afraid to ask them for references either. And, the really important point of this exercise is that you should always follow up and ask questions. Alternatively, you could ask for client testimonials or find them on the realtor’s website.
Are They Available?
Being available means that they can work weekends if necessary because you’re busy and the realtor should be amendable to your schedule and not you to theirs. Being available also means good communication skills. You want a realtor who will readily answer any questions you have. Additionally, they should also be prepared to help you with getting in contact with an experienced home inspector, a real estate lawyer and even some mortgage assistance.
Choosing a realtor is like choosing any other professional – you have to play it smart and ask a lot of questions and do some research. You can take it from this Vancouver mortgage broker that finding a realtor that is in sync with your needs will make your selling or buying process a whole lot more painless and satisfying.