How to choose the right real estate agent in NYC
Hiring a reputable real estate agent can mean the difference between a smooth house hunting experience and a costly mistake. The process of buying or selling a property involves a lot of important tasks and decisions – purchasing a new home, researching real estate agents, arranging the move, finding a suitable moving company, researching storage units NYC. If you choose the right real estate agent in NYC, the entire process will become much easier.
Stating that moving is rather complex may seem like a huge understatement considering all peculiarities involved. Buying or selling a home is one of the biggest financial decisions in a lifetime. Not all homeowners understand what goes into a successful house hunting or selling experience. Whether you are buying or listing a property, it’s a fact that you can significantly benefit from having someone knowledgeable by your side. As it turns out, home-shopping is an arduous and time-consuming experience.
Unless you do this for a living, chances are you are not familiar with real estate tips and tricks. So partnering up with a professional real estate agent who knows the market and understands your concerns could be a way to go. As it turns out, a good broker or real estate agent can make or break a deal.
Therefore, be sure to make an informed decision before you start shopping for a home. Finding your dream home could be a lot easier if you choose the right real estate agent in NYC first. So, start asking around for a trustworthy professional who can help you navigate a home purchase or sale.
How to navigate the real estate market in NYC
Due to a competitive real estate market, nowadays New York City has a lot of real estate professionals to offer, which makes your choice even more difficult. Inquire about quality real estate agents and you may be able to find one even in your own neighborhood. Since you are probably going to spend the next couple of weeks or months searching for the right house, a referral from a friend or relative can mean a lot in terms of making a smart choice. The truth is that not every agent will be the right fit for you.
Try to find out as much as possible about your prospective real estate agents by taking some of the following actions. Check whether your potential agent meets your criteria by asking him (and yourself) some of the most important questions. Here’s what you can do to better prepare for the upcoming events.
Explore the market online
First off, try to understand the differences between real estate agents and their services. Know the difference between agents, brokers, and realtors. Read online reviews to check other people’s experiences. They could be a valuable source of important information about the best real estate agents.
Also, since people tend to share their negative experiences and impressions, they will give you a heads up about less competent individuals.
On the other hand, if you prefer a word of mouth, ask around if some of your friends have recently gone through the house buying/selling process. They may give you some insightful tips about current real estate trends. Once you get several recommendations, make sure to check their reputation online.
Interview prospective real estate agents
Once you decide to choose the right real estate agent in NYC, you should know that there will be a lot of researching. It’s only normal to interview several real estate agents before making the final decision. So, schedule your appointments to get a sense of their practices and experience.
Their first presentation may reveal a lot about their dedication, method of communication and style. If they are upfront with you right from the start, they will be glad to provide references and previous clients’ contacts. A professional real estate agent should share the list of all sold properties along with the contact details. Do not hesitate to get in touch with some of the previous customers to find out more about their experience with the agent in question. Their positive experience may encourage you to finally make up your mind. The right real estate agent should be respected by previous clients and his colleagues.
Even if everything checks out, make sure to trust your instincts when about to choose the right real estate agent in NYC. You should feel confident working with that person in the first place.
Questions to ask prospective real estate agents
The key to a successful deal is to choose the right real estate agent in NYC. If you have no previous experience and knowledge about real estate trends, here’s what you may ask prospective agents to figure out if they are a good fit.
- How long have you been in the business?
- Is this your full-time job?
- What area do you specialize in? Have you sold homes in this neighborhood?
- What type of communication do you prefer?
- Can you provide references?
- How many sellers/buyers are you representing at the moment?
- Will I be working with you directly or with a real estate team?
- What would be your marketing strategy for my home?
- How does your commission work?
- How can I improve my chances of selling my home?
- Have you been dealing with the type of property in my price range?
Interview at least three agents in order to choose the right real estate agent in NYC who will represent you and work in your best interest. For best results, you should be informed about some important protocols before you even schedule those appointments. Agents are part of your deal and they are paid a commission. So, it’s in their best interest also to close the deal successfully. Also, mind the difference between listing and buying agents. Make sure to set realistic goals and to speak up about your expectations. Finding a good realtor or agent takes time, but the efforts you invest in the process will pay off in the end.
Know the difference between realtors, real estate agents, and brokers
Real estate professionals come in the form of agents, realtors, and brokers. Although many people tend to use these titles interchangeably, there are significant differences though.
A real estate agent is a licensed salesperson who usually works for an employing broker. Agents work as a middleman between buyers and sellers and are paid a commission for every successful deal.
A real estate broker can work independently or hire real estate agents. Brokers must pass their broker license exam and take their education beyond the agent level.
Realtors are those real estate agents and brokers who joined the National Association of Realtors (NAR) and agreed to abide by its standards and code of ethics. All realtors are licensed to operate as real estate agents.
Top qualities to look for when you choose the right real estate agent in NYC
If you are new to selling or buying homes, you may find it very difficult to choose the right real estate agent in NYC. As it turns out, the wrong choice can cost you both time and money. Here are some of the most important traits that customers value in a real estate agent.
- Local knowledge and experience
- Attention to detail
- Responsiveness
- Enviable negotiation skills and passion
- Honesty
The right real estate agent should be up to date on the current real estate trends. Extensive knowledge about the local market is what makes him a good fit, along with other qualities. With a vast network of contacts within the local market, he/she can present you with some really good deals. It’s not unusual for them to recommend other service providers such as moving companies Long Island, transportation services, cleaning services…
Since real estate agents are in a service profession, they should be highly motivated and driven by a strong desire to help people. Ideally, they will be passionate about their job and show an amazing enthusiasm for real estate. Their energy and drive should set them apart from the competition. Customers seem to appreciate a positive attitude and an outgoing personality. And in most cases, they will go for a friendly and open-minded professional who’s attentive to the unique needs of each customer.
When the time comes to choose the right real estate agent in NYC to make sure to start your quest well in advance. Leave yourself enough time to prepare for the daunting house hunting or selling process without making rash decisions.
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