If you’re currently in the market looking to buy a home or condo in West Hollywood, it’s in your best interest to work with a REALTOR®. It’s important to understand that there is a big difference between working with a real estate agent who only has a license vs. one who is a REALTOR® as the individual who is a REALTOR® has gone thru additional training and adhere’s to a higher level of ethical requirements. In addition, they are an affiliate of an association.
When starting your process of finding the right REALTOR®, it can make all the difference between a smooth transaction vs. a bumpy one. There’s some questions you should ask prospective REALTORS® as well as yourself to make sure you select one who is best for your needs.
Questions while selecting a REALTOR®
- Does the REALTOR® which is up for consideration listen to your wants as well as your needs? Ultimately you want to save money and time, while going thru the process of either buying or selling a home, condo or investment property. Is the REALTOR® showing you properties which meet your wants or budget or are they showing you properties of no interest? It’s important that you are very clear on those wants and needs and if the REALTOR® is totally off, let them know. Remember, this is a big investment on your end and if it’s not the right REALTOR®, you need to be clear.
- Does your REALTOR® ask questions to prospective buyers or listing agents and/or provide you with feedback necessary? If they aren’t asking questions, are they looking out for your best interest?
- Are you comfortable with this person you’re considering to be your REALTOR®? How well do they communicate? Are they very well versed? Can they negotiate or do they lack negotiation skills? If you cannot develop a good rapport with this person, how will it affect this transaction? You shouldn’t have to deal with a REALTOR® which makes you feel uncomfortable. Peace of mind goes a long way!
- If you’re planning on buying a home, does the REALTOR® know the area well that you’re considering? Having a REALTOR® which is an area expert makes all the difference in the world when it comes to submitting an offer. If they know the city, growth, and what is happening in that city, it can really be a big benefit. Don’t you want to know that the person representing you knows the area you’re moving to well?
- Are your needs met with a qualified REALTOR® based on experience in the type of transaction? Is this a residential, investment property or commercial transaction? Is it land only? Does this REALTOR® have experience with this type of transaction? What are their qualifications?
“Real Estate agents are a dime a dozen in LA”
In Los Angeles it seems most people know at least a handful of real estate agents or REALTORS®. They are a dime a dozen in LA and competition is extremely fierce. If you don’t feel you have the right person, and that this agent doesn’t have your best interests at heart, you should consider hiring a different one. If you treat hiring a REALTOR® like a job, and invest time in making sure you find the right REALTOR®, it can save you a great deal of time, energy and money!
“Find a REALTOR® who has a significant online presence”
Also, today technology is really playing a big part in the real estate industry. It’s in your best interest today to find a REALTOR® who has a significant online presence! It means they maximize technology! This applys to both home buyers and home sellers. Ask them about technology and what they do to maximize.
Best of luck in finding the right REALTOR® for your next real estate transaction!
