How to Find a Realtor
1. The first step is to understand the difference between a real estate agent or broker and a Realtor. Your state’s law requires that the person who sells you a house be licensed by the state as a real estate agent or broker. In addition, a Realtor is a real estate agent who belongs to the National Association of Realtors, and has agreed to abide by their code of ethics.
2. Also, know the difference between a buyer’s agent and a seller’s agent. The seller’s agent owes an obligation to the seller, not to the buyer. Ideally, if you are buying, you want your own buyer’s agent. If you must deal with the seller’s agent, remember that the agent must tell the seller any information you disclose, such as the top price you will pay for the house!
3. As you try to find a Realtor, ask your friends! Your acquaintances are your best sources of information. Your neighbors and the people you know from work or church are all fountains of information. If they themselves have not recently bought or sold a house, they probably know someone who has. Remember, people are flattered to be asked for their advice, so don’t hesitate to ask them their opinion of their Realtor.
4. Whoever your friends recommend, ask the Realtor for references. Ask the Realtor to tell you several of his or her most recent deals. Then, call these people and find out how the transaction went and their opinion of the real estate agent.
5. Check the advertisements. The telephone directory and your local newspaper both contain advertisements of Realtors in the area. Look for an advertisement with an address in your area, or in the area you wish to buy into. Call the realtor and inquire about the agent’s experience.
6. Check online for the websites of major Realtors near you. Many may have multiple locations in your town, so find one where you want to buy or where you want to sell. Ask for a Realtor who has worked or lived in the area for awhile. Many online sites will refer you to a Realtor near you, but understand that the Realtor is paying for the listing on that site. Ask the realtor you select for referrals from past clients to be sure they are pleased with the Realtor’s services.
7. Attend open houses in the area where you live or want to buy. Most open houses are not crowded and you can chat with the Realtor at your leisure. Find out the agent’s experience with the area and get names of past clients for referrals.
8. Drive around the neighborhood and look at the local real estate offices. Most Realtors have offices on major streets and are easy to find. Look at the “For Sale” signs in the area. Note which agents have the most signs; this may be an agent who is especially knowledgeable about the area, and who does a great deal of business there.
