Finding the right REALTOR®

For many people, buying or selling a home is the biggest purchase or sale they will ever make. It’s no surprise that most choose to involve a REALTOR® in the process.

But with so many REALTORS®, it’s not always easy choosing the right one. So how to decide?

Do you need a REALTOR®? Yes. REALTORS® work on commissions, which are typically near 5 percent. If you’re selling your home for $300,000, the standard commission would be $15,000. Naturally a person looking to save money might be apprehensive about the commission. But ultimately, a REALTOR® can save you money.

REALTORS® have an intimate knowledge of the market and the industry, and know your competition. By putting a qualified REALTOR® on your team, in addition to doing your research through the newspaper’s real estate section, you can get more money for your house.

Is My Agent Right?

Finding the right agenttakes a little work but here are some factors to consider.

•Flexibility: Involving an agent will mean you’ll have to pay a commission. A commission should always be flexible. A fixed commission isn’t legal, so if the agent says all homes sold net a 5-percent commission, tell him or her you know otherwise, and look for another agent. In general, the more expensive an area is to live the less the commission will be. More expensive neighborhoods should result in lower commissions, while less expensive areas will likely lean to a higher commission.

•Reputation: People like to move closer to friends and family. Ask friends and family if they can recommend a REALTOR®. If so, this can be a quick way to find one.

•Experience: How much experience a REALTOR® has is important. Ideally, you’d like one who is established in the area where you want to live. Such a REALTOR® will have an extensive knowledge of the neighborhoods, knowing the pricing history of homes bought and sold and what life is like in the neighborhood. Ask for a recent transaction history of homes they’ve sold. Also, check with the local government to see if any complaints have been filed in recent years.

• Trust your gut: Always be wary of agents trying to make a home into something it’s not. An agent shouldn’t have to sell you on a home, but help you find the right one.

What is a REALTOR®?

Not all real estate agents are REALTORS®. A REALTOR® is a registered collective membership mark that identifies a real estate professional who is a member of the National Association of REALTORS® and subscribes to its strict Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice.

A REALTOR® may be able to provide you a better level of service.