As this summer heats up, property values and rent prices are continuing to spike with the temperatures on the thermometer. Whether you are considering a move out of necessity or because your property has gained a lot of value in a short time period, hiring the right real estate agent is more important than ever. With properties coming on and off the market at high-speed all around the country, having someone on your side that knows what you’re looking for and can steer you towards making the right decision can be the difference between getting the perfect place and being stuck in a situation that could have been avoided. Take a look at our tips to find the right help to navigate the current market.
1.- Research The Housing Market Yourself
One of the biggest mistakes that many people make is to not do their own background research first. Before you enter the process of finding a real estate agent, it is important to have a general idea of what you are looking for and the kind of things that are available. Much has changed over the last year even and it doesn’t help anyone if you come into the process of finding a new home that is outside of your reasonable budget and what you want to pay. Make sure you have your financing in order and you have a good baseline for the types of properties you can actually buy. Also, by doing your own research, you could very well find the perfect property on your own and save some fees!
2.- Get A Referral, But Not Necessarily A Friend
One of your best assets in finding the right agent is your network of friends. When thinking about a move, try and ask friends that purchased or rented a property that falls within your range. If they had a good experience, their agent might be the right agent to get you into the perfect property as well. While using your friends as a resource is a great idea, having your friend be your agent might not work out quite as well. If you do use a friend, make sure that he regularly does the type of deals that you are looking to make. Also, a close friend could be liable to add in their own thoughts and feelings that could complicate an already complicated and important process.
3.- Use An Agent That Works With What You Are Looking For
Even if you have a friend that can set you up with a top agent, if you are looking for a rental or a moderately priced property, this agent might not be the best one for your job. If you go outside of agents that regularly deal in the properties that you are looking for, not only will they be less familiar with the neighborhoods that you are looking to move into, but you might also be less of a priority. Factor in human nature and be sure to find an agent where your deal is in their wheelhouse and is at a level where you will be a priority to them. Assuring this will avoid a lot of frustration on your end as you search for your new home.
4.- Communication Is Key
To find the perfect property, a big part of the process is to clearly explain what you want, what you can afford and how to speak effectively. Even if you have done your research and know what you want, it does not help if you keep those findings from your potential agent. Make sure to say your range clearly and what types of things are most important and/or non-negotiable in your housing search. Also, make sure that you are clear in the formats of information that you are most comfortable using. If your agent loves phone calls and you are regularly not available via that method, make sure that your agent knows to send you information that will get to you most effectively.