What To Look For in a Realtor

A realtor is a real estate professional that is a member of the National Association of Realtors (NAR).  They deal with things like residential and commercial real estate brokering, appraising and property management.

Mainly, the duty of a realtor is to help the client find a home at the best possible price, and to assist with the overall process of the transaction.  They may also represent the seller, striving to get the most value out of the home as it relates to the current state of the housing market.

Realtors are bound to the NAR’s very detailed Code of Ethics, and they promise to be honest and open about all of their dealings, keeping the customer’s best interest in mind at all times.

That being said, when buying or selling a home, it’s always important to know a good, trustworthy realtor nearby, so you can rest assured that you are being represented properly.

The process of buying or selling a home can be confusing and frustrating, and a good realtor can help you along the way, maximizing profit for the seller, or minimizing expenditure for the buyer.

What are the traits of a good realtor?

• A good realtor will get to know you personally, taking the time to determine exactly what you are looking for and offering suggestions along the way.
• A good realtor will be patient with you, and they won’t try to rush you or force you into a transaction that you are not comfortable with.
• They will be knowledgeable, both in the current state of the housing market, and the general area of which you are planning to buy or sell.
• A good realtor will be responsive and approachable, and they will never make you feel as though you are bothering them.
• A good realtor will know people, and they will know the local statutes, including remodeling experts, construction workers and everything that has to do with the law.

You will know when you have found a good realtor.  There will be something in your gut that speaks to you about this person.  You will feel very at ease and comforted as you remain in the driver’s seat of the transaction process at all times.

There aren’t too many things in life as important as buying and selling a home.  And, just know, a good realtor will work for you, not against you.

On the other hand, if you happen to come across a bad realtor, you may feel anxious and unsatisfied.  You may feel as though you are just a monetary figure to them, and you may feel as though you don’t have much choice in the matter.

You do have a choice; an important one.

So choose wisely!  And good luck!!!

*Here is a link to the National Association of Realtors website, where you can begin your search.