How To Select A Real estate Agent

By Michael Edlen

Think of it as an employment process, comparing different agents with as much attention and time as you would in selecting a doctor or attorney. Find agents who experienced the challenging markets of 1900-1997.

Develop a list of 3 or 4 well-researched candidates to interview, using various sources such as: managers of local company offices, noting who has consistent presence in local newspaper ads and other publications, and people whose opinion you respect.

Visit each candidate’s personal website, and note how easy it is to navigate and if the content seems current. See if they have any special or upgraded presence for their listings on Realtor.com or other sites. You could also test their on-line response time by sending a brief email requesting information.

Prepare a list of questions to ask them, and begin asking with your first phone call. These could include:
· What is your track record in my neighborhood over the last 2 years?
· Do you live in the area and where is your office?
· What preparations do you recommend before putting a home on the market?
· How do you propose marketing a property?
· Do you provide staff or team support? How available are you personally?
· What is your marketing sales success ratio, and escrow fall-out ratio?
· How many ads per month will you guarantee and what publications will you be in?

That call may help to eliminate a candidate before actually taking the time to meet.

Request any information they have that you can review before scheduling an appointment, and ask for a list of references and phone numbers.

Meet the remaining candidates in their office to see how their work environment feels and be watchful for evidence of good systems in place and a generally positive atmosphere.
· Get a feeling for how much the agent seems to care about you and what is in your best interest.
· See if they ask good questions and offer a consultative approach.
· Try to sense if you would be comfortable with their style, and confident in their representing you well.

If you follow these steps in selecting a real estate agent, you are more assured of being highly satisfied with the results.