- Check out real estate agent 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 licensed real estate advisers — I once saw a statistic that 84% of home buyers in Northern Virginia choose the first agent 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 shopping around. Probably a little of both. The licensed real estate adviser should have time to chat to you. If you pick the most popular Realtor in Fairfax County, you might find yourself working with a junior associate affiliated with that real estate agent.
- There should be a certain chemistry between you and your real estate pro. — You want a Realtor that “gets you”. You and your agent might be spending a lot of time together.
- Ask the real estate pro his/her process for finding homes. — When deciding on a Realtor, ask how they shop houses. Some Realtors have their own preferred listings that they favor. But you want what’s great for you, not what’s right for your Realtor. So make sure the real estate pro is willing to search high and low to find the right place of residence 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 licensed agents to sign a representation agreement before showing properties or having material discussions about a specific home. Be very wary of any agent that is not concerned about getting a representation agreement signed. This advice is heavily used for a reason. A representation agreement describes the agent's responsibilities and your obligations when a real estate agent shows you a abode in Fairfax County.
The perfect Realtor for you is not always the one with the most sales under his or her belt, and is not necessarily the one with the most years on the job. The ideal Realtor is one who listens to you, and can think creatively to make the deal happen.
Each buyer client has unique needs. Some purchasers don't plan on selling. Others need to move in 4 years. Some property hunters are moving in from out of state. Some buyer clients want a big lawn. Just as property hunters have different needs, licensed real estate advisers have different areas of focus and talents.
Here's how I think you should decide on the great real estate professional for you when you’re buying in Village At Mount Gilead: