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- Check out real estate pro 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 Realtors — You don't have to exhaust yourself talking to agent after agent, but at least speak with two or three to see who you're most comfortable with. There is no one-size-fits-all. I know that I'm not the real estate professional for every purchaser.
- Your Realtor should never have an irritating personality. — Interpersonal skills are as important as professional skills. You want a real estate pro that “gets you”.
- Ask the Realtor his/her process for finding homes. — When picking an agent, ask how they find 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 agent. So make sure the Realtor is willing to search high and low to find the dream townhouse for you. That includes using the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) as well as their own personal network.
- Read the 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 townhouse. Be very wary of any agent that is not concerned about getting a representation agreement signed. It doesn't hurt to have a lawyer take a look at your representation agreement, but usually, that's not necessary. The document is pretty straight forward. This advice is heavily used for a reason.
Your best choice does not have to be the friend of a friend and is not always the one with the most sales under his or her belt.
The great Realtor for you is one who listens to you and comprehends how to work with the budget you establish.
No two purchasers want the same things from a home. Some purchasers are moving in from out of state. Some buyer clients are military. Some buyer clients can only afford $219,990 while others are willing to pay $319,990 for the same townhouse. Just as home buyers are different, Realtors have different faculties and personality traits.
Here are curated suggestions for digging up the ideal real estate professional for you when you're purchasing in Woodbridge: