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- Check out Realtor 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 — The agent should have time to discuss with 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 pro. There is no one-size-fits-all. I know that I'm not the agent for every purchaser.
- Your Realtor should be someone you won't mind spending some time with. — You will probably be working with your Realtor anywhere from 2 to 12 months, so it helps to get along with them. Interpersonal skills are as important as professional skills.
- Find out how they search for. — When choosing a Realtor, ask how they shop homes. Some Realtors have their own preferred listings that they favor. But you want what’s perfect for you, not what’s right for your Realtor. So make sure the agent is willing to search high and low to find the most suitable pied-a-terre for you. That includes using the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) as well as their own personal network.
- The devil is in the details. — The Commonwealth of Virginia requires all licensed agents to sign a representation agreement before showing properties or having material discussions about a specific place. Be very wary of any agent that is not 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 buyer 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.
Ask me, Nesbitt Realty, your real estate question.