When you’re buying a home, who you work with matters more than you might think. Your buyer’s agent has the potential to make the entire process a breeze or a nightmare, so choosing the right candidate for the job is crucial if you want everything to go smoothly.
Here’s What You Need to Ask a Buyer’s Agent Before Working with Them
Believe it or not, most home buyers simply work with the first agent they meet—and this isn’t always a good idea. Before you commit to any agent, be sure to interview at least a few candidates and consider all of your options. If you aren’t sure what to ask your buyer’s agent, here are a few questions to get you started.
How long have you been an agent?
This should be a pretty easy question for any agent to answer, but it’s still an important one to ask. It’s best to use an agent that’s had at least a few years to hone their negotiation skills and local expertise.
Are you a full-time or a part-time agent?
When you work with a full-time agent, they’ll probably have more time to dedicate to you and your home search. Part-time agents can’t always give you their undivided attention, especially if they’re just selling real estate on the side.
How many transactions did you complete last year?
The average agent closes on about a dozen homes per year, but this can vary based on area. If they sold less than that, you may want to work with a buyer’s agent that is more active.
How many clients are you helping right now?
A popular real estate agent can probably deliver the results you’re looking for. However, you’ll want to ask about their schedule and see if they can tackle another client. If they don’t have enough time to work with you, consider rescheduling your move or going with someone else.
Do you have experience in my preferred area?
Buying a home requires a good dose of hyperlocal expertise. If you’ve already nailed down your preferred city, town, or even neighborhood, ask an agent if they’ve ever helped clients buy or sell there. The more experience they have in your target area, the better.
Do you have experience in my price range?
Some agents specialize in different price points, so be sure to work with someone who has experience within your budget. Luxury agents may not have the experience needed to help a first time buyer, and vice versa.
How can you help me stand out as a buyer?
The Winston-Salem housing market is fiercely competitive, and many homes sell within just a few hours. If an agent can’t offer anything extra to help you stand out in a sea of offers, it’s time to move on.
How can I best get in touch with you?
Communication is key when it comes to buying a home, so be sure to inquire about an agent’s availability, as well as their preferred method of contact. It’s important that your agent is willing to reach out in a way that you’re comfortable with.
Do you have any references I could contact?
Any great agent should have plenty of positive references—and they should also be eager to share them with you. If your agent refuses to offer any references, it could be a huge red flag.
Do you have any questions for me?
Once you’ve taken the time to interview an agent, they may have a few questions for you, too. Pay attention to what they ask and answer honestly—it can give you a good idea of what it’s like to work with them!
Find Your Perfect Buyer’s Agent
If you’re ready to buy a home in the Winston-Salem area, Forsyth Realty has the expertise you need to make a move! Just get in touch with our team to learn more about the tools we offer our buyers. We look forward to helping you find your perfect place.