As we begin 2016, interest rates are still pretty low and it is a great time to consider purchasing for the first time, selling and purchasing a larger home for your growing family or downsizing. I wanted to share a few points for you to consider when choosing a Real Estate Professional. Let’s face it, anyone who can breathe can get a Real Estate license; it’s what they choose do with that license that makes them a professional.
For those thinking of selling, this is the perfect time to get that work done you have been planning to do before you sell, so you can put your house on the market in the spring. If this spring is anything like 2015, properties that are priced right will not stay on the market very long. Before doing any major work, you really should call on a Real Estate Professional to meet with you at your home and consult with them on where to spend your money, or not. This gives you an opportunity to see if they are the right agent for you. If you are not wowed, if there is something about their personality that drives you crazy, don’t hesitate to call someone else. If you only meet one Agent and something does not feel right, remember it’s like a marriage… It won’t get any better. You need to feel comfortable from the beginning.
When buying or selling you should work with an agent that is committed to meeting your needs and exceeding any expectations you may have. For buyers, even though you have access to many websites that show you what properties are available, including the name and number of the agent who is representing the property, it is in your best interest to have your own agent that represents you. It costs you nothing to be represented, and if you think the agent of the seller is going to work for you, you should know that their number one responsibility is to the seller, and to get them the best possible offer on the property. How can they do that, and negotiate on your behalf?
A good agent has a handful of “partners in the business” that work with together on a day to day basis. They have learned what is needed to get each transaction to the settlement table; as each transaction is different, their resources are also. From Mortgage Bankers to Home Inspectors to Title, and everything in between, don’t be afraid to ask. This entire process is a huge deal for you and should be all about you.
Lastly, do not allow your realtor to make you feel rushed. You need to be comfortable with any and all decisions made to get you to settlement. Your realtor should guide you and educate you along the way.
Hope these tips help you to make all your real estate dreams come true in 2016!
Teri Eide is a real estate agent working with Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate out of Phoenixville.
