Buying Your First Place In Washington, DC: Finding The Right Realtor - Part 2 Of A Series

Buying Your First Place: Finding The Right Realtor - Part 2 Of A Series

When you buy your first place, you and your Realtor® will have perhaps one of the most intimate relationships you’ll have during this lifetime that does not involve sex. By the time you’re done, she’ll know pretty much everything about your life. If your finances are funky, she’ll know. If you marriage is in trouble, she might figure it out before you do. She’ll know all about your dreams and needs, and when you behave badly at some point in the transaction (all clients do), she’ll remain your non-judgmental ally.

So choose carefully!

As you set out on your home buying adventure, you are likely to meet more than one agent who might be a good fit. Unless you are starting off with someone you already know and like, interview several before you commit to a buyer broker relationship with one of them.

What to look for? What questions to ask?

The crucial qualifications are honesty, market knowledge, and a commitment to work in your best interest as you go through the buying process. Your agent needs to “get” you.

• Before your first meeting, did the agent give (or email) you any sort of information package explaining who she is and how she works? Was it well-written and attractively presented?
• How much experience do they have, and do they have a particular expertise? And don’t necessarily rule out a smart, energetic newbie – just make certain he’s well supervised. And if the rookie in any way misrepresents his or her experience, run, don’t walk, away.
• How many other clients are they working with? If this agent is a huge producer, he might not spend the time and attention you want. Your best bet is someone doing real business, but more isn’t necessarily better.
• Does she listen? During your first meeting, is the agent talking about herself? Or is she asking the right questions of you and listening carefully to the answers so she’ll be able to figure out what you really are looking for? You should be doing most of the talking and she should be doing most of the listening.
• How does each agent get you information about the inventory? These days, we all have the ability to email updates any listings that meet your criteria.
• Is the agent tech savvy? We're talking a purse big enough to hold her Smart Phone, digital camera, and the other handly little tools of the trade that will make both of your lives easier.
  
• And how does she communicate? Does she answer that smart phone when you call or text, or do you find yourself in voicemail?
• Will she screen properties for you and show them to you, or will she expect you to do a lot of the leg work yourself.
  

Look at your move as a project. Your agent's job will be to help you design and carry it out. She is your champion - and your fairy godmother (or father). And she should also pass the "fun test", helping you through the process without driving you nuts.

Next: Part 3 - Choosing Your New Neighborhood