Ask Debi, How to choose a real estate agent

Dear Debi,
How do I choose a real estate agent to help me sell my home and help me buy a new home? I have heard some horror stories and I want to choose someone that will look out for my best interests.
Sincerely,
Leery Lucy

Dear Leery,

You are right to want to do some research about who will represent you when you are making such a momentous purchase and sale. There are some really great articles around the web about just this topic so I will summarize some of the best points and then link to them at the bottom.

First, ask around. The best realtors have done such a good job for their clients that they all sing their praises and are happy to refer them.

One you get a few referrals don't be afraid to reach out to them. This will be a good first test. Is the agent responsive? A full time agent should be ready to respond to inquiries very quickly. If you are selling your home do you want potential buyers having to wait several days for a response to their questions? If you are buying a home, do you want to wait a few days to find out if a home is still available?

Another question you may want to ask is if the agent is familiar with the areas that you will be looking in. Some agents specialize in certain areas and some agents are pretty familiar with a large swath of the City. It is good to have an agent with experience in the area that you are buying and selling in.

You can also do some research online. Of course you should google the agent's name and see what comes up. You can also check out their website and also look online at zillow and trulia for agent profiles and reviews.

The bottom line is you want to feel like the agent is honest and looking out for your best interests but you also want an agent that can educate and inform you along the way. A good agent is your best asset when buying or selling a home.

Here are some links to articles on how to choose a real estate agent.
How to choose a real estate agent do's and don'ts
Questions to ask your potential Realtor
7 tips for choosing a Realtor

Good luck making your choice and remember the lovely quote by Tehyi Hsieh- "Life is partly what we make it, and partly what it is made by the friends we choose."

-Debi