Selecting The Right Agent

Currently there are over xx agents in the Puget Sound area who have a real estate license. It goes without saying that there are many real estate agents from which to choose. The question is, who should you choose and how do you go about sorting out the wheat from the chaff?

Recommendations: Ask those you know and trust about their real estate agent. You may, in fact, already have been forwarded to this Web site by someone you know. The most successful agents in the business work primarily on a "by referral" basis. Their expertise is apparent to their past clients, who continually refer them to new clients.

Market Knowledge: Market knowledge and experience are important traits of a real estate agent. Does your agent know and understand your community?

Established Professional: Select a real estate broker who is dedicated to his or her work. A professional real estate agent stays educated, keeping up with current market trends and the latest technology. Choose a real estate agent who approaches his or her work as a profession, as opposed to one for whom real estate is a side pursuit. When you are interviewing agents, ask them how many clients they typically represent each year.

Is it a "Fit"? Listen to your gut. If it "feels" wrong, it may not be a good fit. You are going to be spending a great deal of time with your agent, so you need to feel this is someone you can trust and confide in. Your agent should understand, and embrace, the goals you have in finding your new home. If you haven't found the right fit - keep looking!

Sole Practitioners vs. Assistants: Some agents work alone; others prefer to hire assistants to help. Be aware that many agents have an initial meeting with you, then hand you off to their assistant. This can be frustrating if you've spent time trying to get the best "fit"! Ask agents you interview whether you will actually be working with them; if not, be sure to interview the assistant who will actually be assigned to you.

Questions to Ask: Click here for a form you can download to use while interviewing agents.

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