Your best choice in Fairfax County might work for a family business (or a Fortune-400 company), and is not necessarily the one with the most years on the job. The perfect agent for you is more concerned with your needs than the real estate professional's needs, knows real estate for sale in Fairfax County, and is not afraid to tell you the truth (even when you don't want to hear it).
No two buyers have the same problems. Some buyers don't mind a longer commute to get more than 1,090 sqft of home. Some property seekers are moving in from out of state. Some home buyers will only be happy with a move-in ready home. Just as purchasers are different, real estate professionals have different aptitudes and talents.
Here's a few ideas to help you pick the real estate professional for you when your purchasing in 22308:
Realtor Julie NesbittCheck out real estate professional referrals. — I like Angie’s List because I know that Angie’s List voice verifies each review. You can also see if the agent or brokerage has any awards for client satisfaction.
Speak with a few real estate pros — You don't have to exhaust yourself interviewing agent after agent, but at least talk with two or three to see who you're most comfortable with. The real estate agent you should should have time to talk to you. If you pick the most popular agent in Fairfax County, you might find yourself working with a junior associate affiliated with that real estate agent.
- It's important that you have a good feeling when speaking to your Realtor. — Interpersonal skills are as important as professional skills. You don't want to have to explain the same thoughts and ideas over and over.
- Ask the real estate agent his/her process for finding houses. — When selecting a licensed real estate adviser, ask how they search for homes. Some Realtors have their own preferred listings that they favor. But you want what’s best for you, not what’s best for your real estate professional. So make sure the licensed real estate adviser is willing to search high and low to find the best home for you. That includes using the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) as well as their own personal network.
- Read paperwork carefully. — The Commonwealth of Virginia requires all agents to sign a representation agreement before showing properties or having material discussions about a specific property. Be very wary of any agent that is no concerned about getting a representation agreement signed. Some representation agreements describe hidden administrative fees of $500 to $1000 that you must pay at closing. (Our does not.) Some representation agreements describe a rebate paid to the property seeker at closing. (Nesbitt Realty offers rebates.) You'll want to read the fine print to make sure that this rebate isn't pulled away at the last minute.
