Sure, the internet makes it easier than ever for people to search for and discover homes on the market, but the jobs of real estate agents, realtors, and brokers are far from extinct. The amount of work that goes into the home buying and selling processes far exceed most people’s expertise. Plus, realtors help cut down on the amount of heartbreak and let-downs, as they can steer people in the right direction when it comes to finding a property.
If you are in the market for a new real estate agent, you can facilitate a great working relationship by doing a bit of homework before you meet with them. Having the information your realtor needs can simplify the process and get you on the market quicker. Below we’ve outlined some best practices to complete before interviewing potential real estate agents.
Know What You Need from an Agent
Real estate agents tend to pick up a specialty in their career. Some work in particular neighborhoods and know the ins and outs of that market. Others specialize in things like helping first-time home buyers find their dream starter home. If you are selling your house, you want a realtor with ample experience as a listing agent. Decipher what it is you need from a real estate agent beforehand to help simplify your search.
Decide What You Want
If you are buying, the more details you can give your agent regarding the style and features you want in a home, the easier their job is. Giving them plenty of information also helps save you time. Your realtor won’t need to drag you along to unworthy properties if they know what things to avoid. Research homes in the area and read architecture blogs to get ideas. Remember: If a good house doesn’t have a feature on your “want” list, it doesn’t have to be a deal breaker. You can always make renovations if the price is low enough.
Review Your Finances
A good real estate agent will recommend that buyers review their personal finances and contact potential lenders before reaching out to a realtor. You also want to start collecting documents with essential information for your home loan. At the very least, provide the lender with your two most recent pay stubs, the last two years of your tax returns, and your past two years of W2s.
Clean House
If you are selling, start cleaning out stuff before hiring a realtor. A home free of clutter is more attractive and better highlights the functions and features the house offers. It gives a realtor the space they need to stage your home. Sell extra furniture and donate outdated decor. Now is also a good time to box up non-essential items you want to keep and move them into a storage unit for the time being. This will help when it comes to home staging, but it also cuts down on the amount of time you will spend packing in the future.
When it’s time for an open house or showings: clean, clean, clean! If you don’t have time to clean your home, opt to hire someone so your home is ready. The fee they charge is a small price to pay to save you some time.
Postpone Home Updates
You may think a renovation will help potential buyers decide on your home, but you shouldn’t make any large updates until you’ve consulted a realtor. Your real estate agent can let you know if the project is a waste of time and money so you don’t have to juggle the stress of construction with that of selling a house.
Real estate agents, realtors, and brokers are extremely helpful for those who do not have the time and expertise needed to navigate the ins and outs of the market. You can help facilitate a positive working relationship by preparing yourself for the home-buying or home-selling experience. By doing things like getting your finances in order and cleaning house, you streamline the process to reduce anxiety.
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