Purchasing a home should be one of the momentous events of your life. When you are ready to purchase, it is important to find an experienced real estate agent to guide you through the process. A good agent can help you guide the purchasing process with less stress, while a not-good agent can make the process more difficult than you (and your wallet) need.

How to Choose the Right Real Estate Agent

Here is the step-by-step guide to finding the best real estate agent.

1. Get Preapproved for a Mortgage

Sometimes, homeowners will hire a real estate agent and immerse themselves in their home search before talking to the mortgage lender. But it is wise to talk to a lender first to find out how much you can afford.

Getting pre-approval for a mortgage will inform you of the maximum amount you can borrow and identify the issues that need to be worked out at the beginning of the process.

2. Get a Referral 

There is nothing better than a personal recommendation from a friend or family member you trust. Ask your friends and family to suggest a real estate agent with whom they’ve had a better experience. 

3. Good Communication 

Victorious purchase of a home involves communication between the buyer and the agent and the purchasing agent with the sales agent — it is about open homes and inspections. You can hire a good agent who communicates well with you and be ready to answer all your questions about the home buying process.

4. Check Out the Local Market Knowledge

If you have more time then check out the local housing market in person and look for repeat agent names. Take more time to communicate with the real estate agent. Keep noting their personality and professional ethics. You can also check the agent’s website and social media accounts.

5. Positive Reviews 

In terms of finding real estate, online reviews are one of the best ways. Check all of the reviews that you can find before choosing the agent, and look for an agent who can tell previous customers only positive things about their experiences. Don’t have to worry about one or two negative reviews.

6. Trustworthy Experience 

It is very essential to ask a reliable agent how long they have been selling and buying homes, and also their experience in this particular field. Ask their average price list to sell and the time it takes their customers to find and close their new home.

7. Interview at Least Three Real Estate Agents

When hiring a real estate agent, do not settle for the first agent you meet. Handle it like a job interview as it is! An interview is the best way to get a sense of the real estate agent’s experience and style. Ask the proper questions like how long they have been a real estate agent, how many clients they have now and how their price list, etc. Interviews give the chance to find out the agent’s communication and availability.