Now that you have talked with a home loan expert, it’s time to bring in another great professional: your real estate agent.
It can be exciting looking at homes that are for sale, knowing one of them might soon be yours. But looking at homes that don’t have the features you want can lead to house-hunting “burnout.”
A Real Estate Agent Can Help You Avoid Wasted Time
They keep you focused on homes that meet your specifications, in neighborhoods that are desirable to you—and in your price range.
You may have an agent who’s been referred to you by close family or friends, but take the time to “interview” a few agents before you make a commitment. Make sure you are comfortable with your choice because finding the right home takes time. Not only will you be spending a great deal of time together, but you never want to feel an agent is rushing you to close a deal—especially one that doesn’t feel right to you.
Here Are Some Questions You Might Ask Agents:
• How long have you worked in real estate?
• Is this your full-time job?
• Are you familiar with the area where I want to look?
• How many home sales did you participate in last year?
• Will you be present at the closing?
A good real estate agent will be communicating with you frequently, suggesting homes and neighborhoods for you to scout — and will definitely give you notification when a new listing that might interest you comes on the market.