How To Select The Right Real Estate Professional (For You) When House Hunting

Photo of 101 West St The great real estate agent might not look like the typical licensed real estate adviser, and might not be a local. The right Realtor for you is equipped to handle unique situations when they arise,  and has the persistence and tools to address your unique situation.
Each purchaser is unique. Some home shoppers need 1 bedrooms. Some buyers need help selling their current home in addition to buying a new townhouse. Some buyers have a large down-payment. In the same way that every property hunter shopping in Alexandria is different, Realtors have different experiences and experiences. Here's how I think you should select the best choice of Realtor for you when you’re buying in the City of Alexandria:
Kim Nesbitt and Julie Nesbitt
Kim Nesbitt and Julie Nesbitt
  1. Check 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.
  2. Talk to multiple licensed real estate advisers — The licensed real estate adviser you choose should be able to clearly understand your needs. I once saw a statistic that 84% of buyer clients in Northern Virginia choose the first licensed real estate adviser they contact. This means one of two things. Either most people are choosing wisely the first time, or they're just rushing into things without measuring all options. Probably a little of both.
  3. It's critical that you and your agent share a certain rapport. — You don't want to have to explain the same thoughts and ideas over and over. Professional expertise is an important criterion when choosing a real estate professional in the City of Alexandria.
  4. Ask the agent his/her process for finding homes. — When selecting a Realtor, ask how they shop residences. Some real estate professionals have their own preferred listings that they favor. But you want what’s perfect for you, not what’s perfect for your real estate agent. So make sure the licensed real estate adviser is willing to search high and low to find the ideal townhouse for you. That includes using the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) as well as their own personal network.
  5. Read paperwork carefully. — The Commonwealth of Virginia requires all licensed agents to sign a representation agreement before showing properties or having material discussions about a specific Other-style. Be very wary of any agent that is not concerned about getting a representation agreement signed. It doesn't hurt to have a legal counselor take a look at your representation agreement, but usually that's not necessary. The document is pretty straight forward. It's critical that you examine all documents during the home buying process, and that includes your agent's representation agreement.
US Capitol
Julie Nesbitt at the nation’s Capitol
I’m your local expert, Julie Nesbitt. To learn more about 101 West St or any real estate available in Alexandria, Virginia, talk to me. I’m Julie Nesbitt and I appreciate the opportunity.

Julie Nesbitt

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Julie Nesbitt is an ABR who has served buyers in some of Alexandria’s most exclusive neighborhoods.  She is a top producing agent who has listed and sold property in Northern Virginia. In addition to helping folks buy, sell and rent property in Northern Virginia, Julie is the primary administrator of the property management services performed by Nesbitt Realty and Condo Alexandria. Call Julie at (703)765-0300.