Deciding to buy or sell real estate is generally one of the most significant financial decisions we make in our lives. Yet, even knowing the stakes, many people simply choose a friend or an acquaintance to handle this massive responsibility.
To ensure your investment is protected, you need an expert, not just an agent. Here is the 2019 professional standard for selecting your representative.
The Three-Interview Rule
I recommend interviewing at least three local agents who have a proven track record of success in your specific market. Look for a full-time professional who is deeply embedded in the community where you live (or where you want to live).
What to Request from Every Candidate:
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A Track Record: Proof of recent successful closings in your price range.
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References: A list of recent clients you can call to verify their experience.
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Local Insight: Their specific knowledge of local market trends and neighborhood-level data.
For the 2019 Seller: The CMA and Marketing Plan
If you are selling your home, an agent should provide you with a written Comparable Market Analysis (CMA). This report should not just be a number, but a data-driven explanation of your home's value based on recent local sales. Additionally, ask to see their specific Marketing Plan—how exactly will they ensure your home reaches the right buyers?
For the 2019 Buyer: The Buyer's Agent Advantage
If you are a buyer, you should ask to speak specifically to the last three clients the agent represented as a Buyer’s Agent. You want to know how they navigated negotiations, handled inspections, and guided their clients through the closing process.
The Expert Difference
Your real estate journey should be handled by a professional who treats it with the weight it deserves. Taking the time to interview and vet your agent is the first step toward a successful, stress-free closing.
