Purchasing real estate, the 1st time or the 50th time is a major life event. It’s one of the largest if not the largest financial transaction most will ever make. Working with the right real estate agent to manage the selling or buying process is so important. As Moscow Realty Broker and Owner Jess Dahlinger says, “Finding an agent is like dating – sometimes you may kiss a few frogs before finding the person who is going to work with you best.” That said, interview a few agents, see who you click with, you’re really looking for someone who you’ll be talking with nearly daily through high level decisions. This is one of those times where it is good to shop around. Reputation speaks volumes, ask for references from past clients, who your friends and family recommend, or check with local lenders.
The three most important things your selling agent can do for you:
- help market the home to potential buyers
- provide pricing information to properly position the home competitively in the market
- sell the home within a specific timeframe
The three most important things your buyer agent can do for you:
- finding the right home to purchase
- negotiating the terms of the sale
- position buyers competitively based on market activity
The National Association of Realtors shares the following things to know as a home buyer or seller:
- If you are a buyer and your agent is using an MLS, you will need to sign a written agreement with your agent before touring a home so you understand exactly what services will be provided, and for how much.
- Written agreements are required for both in-person and live virtual home tours.
- You do not need a written agreement if you are just speaking to an agent at an open house or asking them about their services.
- Agent compensation for home buyers and sellers continues to be fully negotiable.
- When finding an agent to work with, ask questions about their services, compensation and these written agreements.
- More details about these changes and what they mean can be found at facts.realtor.
When you’re ready to choose your agent – we’d be happy to visit to see if we’re a good fit and completely understand if we’re not! Give us a call at the office 208-823-5531, stop by our office at 201 E Third Street in Moscow, or visit our agent pages here.