How do I choose a good real estate agent?

A good reputation is everything when you are looking for a real estate agent. If you are trying to sell your home, and particularly if you under a deadline, it is important to find the best real estate agent you can. A good real estate agent can make the difference in a home sitting on the market for a few years or being sold in a few months. A perfect real estate agent may not be everything, but it sure doesn't hurt.

When looking for a good real estate agent, ask around. Referrals from friends and family are the best way to find someone who will do a good job. Don't just the first person listed in the phonebook anyone and certainly don't hire an agent based solely on the fact that they are family friend or that you want to do him/her a favor. Your home is your biggest asset and you don't want to leave that to just anyone regardless of whether or not they are friends or could use favors. It is just not something that is worth risking.

If you are selling your home, you want a "seller's" agent. What's more, you want someone who does not also represent buyers. Choosing someone who represents both sides may mean that there is some partiality there that may cause the agent to consider something that is not in your best interest. A licensed Realtor is usually a good choice because they have a set of rules and ethics that they must follow.

Just like with anything else, ask questions. The more you know, the better prepared you will be and the more realistic your expectations. Ask what advertising options are available and what will be done to encourage the sale of your home. Are there open houses? How often? Will your home be advertised in the local paper, online or in other ways? If your home doesn't sell as quickly as expected, what options will there be?
Be certain, too, that your agent can list with a Multiple Listing Service (MLS) so that your home can be viewed as often as possible.

If you feel like your agent isn't working for you, then find another one, but don't spend too much time jumping from agent to agent. This can time consuming and can slow down the sale of your home. Communicate often with your agent and find out how often your home is being shown. If you feel like your home isn't being shown as often as it should, this may be a red flag that your agent isn't working hard enough to find a buyer or isn't advertising well. You also want to be sure your agent can be reached. If you can't get a hold of your agent, then a potential buyer may not be able to, either.

You are the best judge of whether or not your agent is doing enough to sell the home. Just know that you need to keep the lines of communication open and cooperate in every way you can to help your home sell.