The Guidance of Real Estate Agents for Home Buyers
It’s extremely important to know the ins and outs of selecting a real estate agent before you bring one along with you to help in your search for a home, just so you may know what to expect, and what will be expected of you.
Who a Real Estate Agent Is
You probably already know who a real estate agent is, but do you know exactly what they do?
In short, a real estate agent is someone who is licensed to list and sell real estate, implying homes, properties, etc. A realtor, however, is somewhat different.
A realtor is a member of the National Association of Realtors. Therefore, while an agent is always a real estate agent, a real estate agent isn’t always a realtor.
How to Choose the Best Real Estate Agent for Your Needs
You may feel the urge to pick the first real estate agent who strikes you, but that’s something one should never do. The “Wow Factor” will simply wear off within a few minutes, even seconds.
Look for Proper Credentials
Would you trust a doctor who does not have credentials, or one that hides them? Probably not. So, why trust a real estate agent who does not present theirs, or doesn ‘t have them at all?
It’s easy to find real estate agents who can get the job done, but finding agents with special credentials, those who have gone that extra step to take additional classes in certain specialties of real estate sales, is hard.
Here are just a few real estate credentials that you should be on the lookout for:
• Accredited Buyer’s Representative, or ABR – Completed additional education during representation of a buyer in his/her transactions.
• Certified Residential Specialist, or CRS – Completed additional training during the handling of residential real estate, such as houses and apartments.
• Seniors Real Estate Specialist, or SRES – Completed training during the purpose of helping sellers and buyers who are 50-years or more.
Similarly, if you stumble upon a real estate agent who is also a member of the NAR, the National Association of Realtors, it will be a bonus. However, make sure that they have at least one or two credentials that are relevant to your needs.
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The Process of Buying a House – Table of Contents:
- The Guidance of Real Estate Agents for Home Buyers
- Owning VS Renting
- Home buyer’s guide – needs and desires for a house
- Horror stories in the real estate world
- Searching for the Right Home
- Hire an Agent, or Buy Alone?
- Do and Don’ts in Negotiations When Buying a House
- All You Need to Know About the Home Inspections
- Shopping for a Home Loan
- Programs for First-Time Home Buyers
- The Closing Process
- Best Ways to Organize Your Move
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I really appreciate your help in approaching the home-buying process correctly, especially the amount of detail you put into explaining the role and choosing of a real estate agent. My goal is to buy a home that I can raise my four kids and dog in, and getting someone that is familiar enough with the market that they can help us find the best house for our needs really will be important, as you said. The fact that some agents take extra classes like you mentioned really emphasizes how seriously they take their craft and definitely is a good consideration to take when looking at agents.
My wife and I want to buy a home this year so thanks for sharing these tips. I like your point about choosing a real estate agents with lots of credentials. I’ll be sure to ask about their experience and credits so I can find the most qualified agent.
Hi Derek,
How are you and your wife coming along with the home buying process? Did you find a home yet? or are you still waiting?
If you need any assistance, please give me a call.
Kind Regards
Dede