Looking to buy your first home? Or just another home in general? Well there are a few things that you should know about selecting a buyer’s agent to represent your interests in this life-changing opportunity.
But the golden question is; How do you choose one?
Interviews are one of the best ways to decide whether an agent has the knowledge that they need and what you are looking for to help you with this big decision that you are making to help you. After all, purchasing a home is a HUGE milestone in your life and you want the best person possible working for you to help you!
Here are some of the best questions to ask when interviewing an agent to guide you in buying a home:
Experience and Credentials
How long have you been a buyer’s agent? Are you an Accredited Buyer’s Representative?
References
Who are the last buyer-clients that you have helped and can you provide this references?
Knowledge
What are your specific areas of knowledge when it comes to housing? Which types of housing or neighborhoods do you know the most about?
Services Provided
How will you assist me at each stage of the transaction. Do you have a written buyer representation agreement that explains our obligations to each other?
Compensation
How will you be compensated? If I hire you as my buyer’s agent will I be subjected to any additional costs in my business with you?
Finding Properties
Do you have full access to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) during your search? Or will you try to find suitable properties
beyond the MLS?
Personal Support
Will you handle all parts of my transaction, or will I be working with someone else like an assistant of yours?
By asking each one of these questions, you’ll have a greater understanding of how well an agent explains the purchase process, ideally helping you feel more comfortable about working with them to eventually get the home you want and like.