How To Hire A Good Real Estate Agent

The first step to finding a good agent is to contact one.  Real estate agents are not shy and do not hide.  Doing an interview will help you find the agent you are looking for.  The purpose of interviewing should be to check the qualities of the agent.  Is this agent the right fit for your home buying process?  Do they have the qualities you are looking for in an agent?  The agent must have a history of ethical behavior, moral aspects, working capabilities, ideas and motivation for their work.

Here are some traits to look for when hiring an agent:

• Current?  Is the agent up-to-date with the latest housing trends so that you can be served effectively?
• Connected?  Does the agent have the necessary contacts to assist in every phase of buying a home?  A network of connections should include home inspectors, quality service people, and other brokers.
• Knowledgeable?  Is the agent familiar with the current market and able to help with price issues strategically?
• Organized?  An agent must pay close attention to your specific needs well and be quick to follow leads and communicate.
• Personable?  Agents who are sincerely interested in helping you will "go the extra mile with a smile".
• Passionate?  Some agents treat their job like a hobby or just a way to earn extra income.  Find an agent who is passionate about real estate and loves the job; you will find they work harder, longer, and produce better results.
• Tenacious?  Successful agents possess a strong work ethic.  They will not be put off by the long hunt to find you a home.
• Honest?  Professional real estate agents build their reputation on high standards of business practices.
• Self-motivated?  Real estate agents are commission only business people.  Successful agents work hard because what benefits their clients also benefits them.