Whether you’re buying or selling real estate, having a competent and trustworthy agent on your side is crucial to getting the best results. But with so many agents vying for your business through online ads, yard signs and even billboards, it can be challenging to find one that meets your needs.

If you’re looking for a real estate agent, start by asking friends and family for referrals. Then, check out their websites and online profiles for information about their experience and specialized expertise. Also, look at customer reviews to get a sense of their professionalism and customer service skills.

You’ll want to choose an agent with relevant professional certifications and years of experience in your area. Plus, make sure that they’re licensed to practice in your state. If an agent has a number of negative online reviews, this is usually a red flag.

A good real estate agent will listen to your needs and concerns and have a working style that clicks with yours. But it’s just as important to avoid an agent who talks over you, doesn’t communicate well or tries to impose their own agenda on you.

Another red flag is an agent who doesn’t answer your calls or texts promptly. If they’re hard to reach, it’s a sign that they don’t take their job seriously and may not be the right fit for you.

When choosing a real estate agent, you’ll want to interview several candidates before making a decision. During the interview, ask each candidate how they would approach your situation and what their qualifications are for representing you. Ask about their market knowledge and the number of homes they’ve sold in your area. Read also: https://www.readysetsellmyhome.com/we-buy-houses-meridian-idaho/

It’s also a good idea to ask potential agents about their process for pricing properties. For example, if they tell you that your home is worth a certain amount, ask them to show you the research that supports that price. If an agent isn’t able to support their pricing, this could be a sign that they aren’t knowledgeable about your local market.

Finally, be sure to choose an agent with a solid track record and who is a good fit for you. For example, if you’re interested in investing in multifamily properties, be sure to choose an agent who has extensive experience with those types of properties. Similarly, if you’re a first-time homebuyer, you’ll want to work with an agent who has helped other first-time buyers successfully navigate the homebuying process.