How To Hire The Right Realtor

So you're finding yourself looking to sell a property and now you're looking for that perfect agent to represent you and your equity. You've come to the right place for straight unbiased answers.

Not all agents are created equal. Just like any other business in the world you have those who make things happen, those who think about things happening and those who don't know what happened. Choose an agent who makes things happen.

I spent years owning and running an auto repair shop and running a plowing company so when I entered the real estate market in 1999 I was the furthest thing from the typical suit and tie salesperson we all hate to meet and proud of it. This brings me to my first suggestion.

Be skeptical of the snake-oil salesperson. I know that sounds simple and easy, I mean you would not fall for a person like this right? Too many people do and it's a shame because the snake-oil salesperson has nothing to offer but smoke and mirrors and a whole lot of fancy talk to detour from their lack of ability.

Questions to ask when you meet the agent face to face. I would not interview over the phone, do it in your home or at the agents office.

1. What makes you different? Why should I list my property with you? I can tell you that many agents will be at a loss of words right here because it's blunt and puts them right on the spot to justify why they are the right person for the job. You will also be able to see how they may react to a buyers question about your home. A buyer is going to be throwing out questions left and right about your home, some good and some not, how will this agent be able to react. You want an agent who can communicate not one who hides.
2. What is your track record?

• How long have they been in the business?
• Are they full time? Do not hire a part time agent or you will be asking for part time service.
• What is their web presence? Do not hire an agent who does not embrace the web, I mean let's be honest the days of paper are dwindling fast. Ask yourself this, did you go to the local paper to find information about hiring an agent or did you Google it and come here?

3. Do you have a full service office? You will get more activity with an agent that not only works full time but has an office where mortgages and title work can be performed at.

4. How will you communicate with me? I can tell you I list at least a dozen properties a year that were listed with other agents and the sellers let them go due to communication. I would ask how they will keep you updated on the market, changes, suggestions, feedback as well as any other information that you should have about your property. Selling should not be the agent and then you, it should be you and the agent.

5. Other great questions:

• What is the average time it takes you to sell a home?
• What is you average sale price compared to your asking price?
• How many homes do you sell a year? Be careful on this one you're not looking for the person who is too busy yet you're not looking for the person who sells to little. Make sure they have the proper amount of time to dedicate to your property.
• Do you use video?
• Do you Blog?
• Do you have your own website and does it have a lead management system? You want an agent who works the web.

In the end and after all the questions are addressed I will state I am a firm believer in the "getting along" and "feeling a comfort level" as well. You really should feel comfortable, you may not be looking for a BFF out of the deal but you will be in a business relationship where trust and communication will be necessary.

If you would like to sell or buy real estate anywhwere in the Twin Cities area please contact me here and have a great day!