Tips for finding perfect agent to represent you:

Finding a realtor that works best for you and your family is our number one priority here at SunGroup Real Estate and Appraisals. We have agents of all ages that specialize in all different aspects of the market in order for us to find the perfect fit for you. So, how should you choose the right agent for you?

When looking to buy a home, one of the very first steps is to find an agent to represent and support you during this exciting process. So, how do you find the perfect one to do that job? Here are some tips to get you started!

Difference between realtor and real estate agents:

A real estate agent means that they are licensed by the state; they passed a licensing exam and have completed the minimum amount of course work. Agents can be Realtors, which means they are members of the National Association of Realtors (NAR). Realtors are then required to follow the Realtor’s Code of Ethics. Failure to do so can result in being removed from the association, which can cause some difficulties in working as an agent. Many agents are Realtors, but it is not a requirement.

How you can be best prepared before hiring a real estate agent: buyer’s edition

The first thing you should do before hiring a real estate agent is get preapproved (Click here to find out how!) We have entire blog over this if you want more details, but getting preapproved will make you + your agent’s life SO much easier.

You should understand the mortgage loan process- mainly if you are a first-time home buyer. You need to understand what you can spend, how much you have for a down payment, and understand what it means to pay earnest money. Before hiring an agent, it is nice to understand your finances but your agent can absolutely help you with this as well.

The next step to preparing yourself is having an idea of what you want your next home to look like. A good way to do this is curb shopping, drive around and find neighborhoods and houses that are appealing to you. Watch HGTV, consider different floor plans, styles, and ideas. Find those little things that you do and don’t like and make a list. It is always helpful to have an “absolutely” and “absolutely NOT” list, that way your agent can have a better idea of what you are looking for.

How you can be best prepared before hiring a real estate agent: seller’s edition

When selling your home, there are less things required of you before the house is ready. Because of this, you can, and should, start your search for an agent early. Your agent will be able to assist you evaluating your homes needs. They may advise you of some repairs or cosmetic fixes that will pay for themselves in the end.

Your next step is getting the home in order to show and sell. This should include a decluttering session; those old boxes you haven’t touched in years? Throw them out. The old furniture that won’t join you on your move? Donate it. The dead plants that have been in the garage for years? Goodbye. The point of this is to make the home seem like a space that can be personalized for those looking at it. It is hard to picture a house as your own when its gross and full of clutter. Get rid of the stuff in the way and give it a good deep clean. We want to be able to stage it and make it look pretty and livable. Your agent will help you with all of this.

Where do I start?

Now comes the fun part, finding the perfect agent that is going to make this experience easy and enjoyable! So, where do you start? There are multiple different places that you can look for an agent, but we recommend you start within your own personal network. This means you should ask around… friends, family, neighbors, co-workers, people who you know have recently moved. Personal experience is the best review that someone can give, being able to have direct conversations with someone who was just in your position is a great asset to have.

Researching the market and your local agents is another good way to find an agent who may suit your personal needs. When you find someone that you may like, search their social media. Find out what they seem like online, who they interact with, who interacts with them… this can tell you a lot about a person.

The next recommendation that we could make is checking with the local chamber of commerce to see which agents are active within the community and have a good reputation within the community eye.

What makes an agent the “right” agent?

Once you have gathered several names of agents in your area who may qualify as your best fit, there are a few more things to consider

• How much experience do they have?
• Agents who have worked with first-time home buyers, special deals, commercial transactions…etc, may have better knowledge to assist you in what you are wanting.
• On the other hand, some of the newer and younger agents can relate to you better than others. Some just bought their own home for the first time so they can offer both personal and professional advice.
• What is their local knowledge like?
• Are they familiar with the local market? Can they advise you on current trends in the area? This is an important aspect to consider because things like price can vary widely depending on the county the property is in.
• How do their marketing and technology skills compare?
• It is important that your agent has the ability to market your home in the way that is needs. These skills are important when it comes to promoting your home online, you want to it look its very best.

How do you decide?

Feel comfortable asking those hard questions, you want to be sure that you and your agent are the same page at all times. It is okay to feel confused or concerned, just ask your agent questions and they will be able to help you. In the end, you want to find an agent that can support you in every aspect of this process. On the flip side, an agent wants a client that they can relate to and be able to support throughout this journey. Here at SunGroup, we make it our mission to make sure our clients are always well cared for, comfortable, and happy throughout their time with us. We want to make this process enjoyable and as stress free as possible, for everyone.