Looking for someone to assist you in buying your next home? Do you have a home that you’d like to sell? If this is a question you asked yourself, chances are that you were on the lookout for an agent to assist you with this process. The question many have asked is: How to choose an agent?

I wish I could tell you a magical formula that works every time, but there isn’t one available. In this industry, there are agents of all walks of life and backgrounds. Some have incredible education acumen, while some graduated through the school of hard knox. Agents have successful careers in this industry by grinding every day to find clients; while others flock in droves to work with that one all-star that everyone knows. Although there is no magical formula that I can share, here are a couple of key suggestions that I would recommend before deciding who your next representative will be.

How to Choose an Agent

1. Interview! Ask your friends, family, and co-workers any recommendations on agents they can possibly refer. After you gather all the intel on each of the agents brought to your attention, research their backgrounds via the internet and social media and choose the top 3 finalists for consideration and meet with each of them. Some questions to consider:a. Education/Experience in their career timeline and in the real estate industry.
   b. Specific scenario questions related to your situation and how the agent would handle
   c. Turnaround on questions asked by client
   d. Accessibility for showings
   e. Ask for possible contact information of past clients to ask of their experience with agent
2. Cut through the fluff. Let’s face it. In order to succeed in this industry, salesmanship is utilized by all of us. For agents that talk a good game, this is the proverbial hook for clients to work with them. However, there are many in the industry that sound so good in person, yet cannot deliver or fail miserably in closing any deal on your behalf. It ends up being a waste of your time. As with the previous example, scenario questions are great when vetting what an agent would do in certain situations and if they are as knowledgeable as they say they are.
3. Chemistry. This is an important element in the process that cannot be undersold. You want to work with someone that you can be honest, forthright, and comfortable with, and vice versa. What is the use of picking an All-Star Master’s Club agent if you feel awkward or intimidated talking to them? It is very common for clients to choose agents that fit relatable attributes that they can identify with, such as religion, culture, social backgrounds, etc.
4. Integrity. You don’t want an agent that does not value the trust you are instilling in them to represent your interests. If you found an agent who has a strong moral compass, provides honest feedback and insight, and handles their business dealings in a professional, ethical manner, chances are they are the right person for the job.

Whoever you choose, it is important that you feel confident in their ability, know they are looking out for your best interests, and representing you with the highest ethical standards. The suggestions above will help you find that right agent for you!

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Happy Hunting!
– John