Not all real estate agents are created equal – what you need to know to choose.

Congratulations! You are about to embark on the experience of buying a new home. Whether it is your first home purchase or third home purchase, choosing the right real estate agent for you is critical to finding just the right fit for you and your family/pets. As with any major investment, you want to take the time to really find a partner who will help you and go to work on your behalf. It is worth taking the time to do your research and a few other prep items before locking down your real estate agent of choice.

In Nashville, there are lots of realtors to choose from. Neighborhoods are changing rapidly and the landscape is completely different than it was a year ago. Houses move quickly. All of these things make for an interesting real estate landscape. Partnering with the right real estate agent will make the whole process less stressful.

Here are a few tips to help you choose the right real estate agent:

Do your initial research

Not all real estate agents are created equal. Start by doing some basic research. Get to know the landscape by understanding what you need to be looking for when choosing a real estate agent. Gather questions to ask. Google local real estate agents. Google neighborhoods you want to target. The more information you are armed with the better choices you can make in the long run.

Ask for recommendations from friends and family

A great way to start your research is to ask your friends and family. Post on Facebook, join neighborhood groups for the areas you are interested in and ask for recommendations. After you have received recommendations start looking at reviews, websites, and other information that you can find out about the real estate agent. Ask your friends and others why they recommended this particular agent.

Tip: Create a spreadsheet that will allow you to keep track of basic information about the real estate agent. Include things such as name, email, phone, website, and any other pertinent info you deem necessary.

real estateShop around and interview

Have an actual conversation or two with potential real estate agents. This process may seem tedious, but it is important that you can work with your potential realtor’s personality and temperament.

This is a time for you to ask potential agents about the issues most important to you. What are the schools like in the areas you are looking, crime rates, do they specialize in working with clients such as yourself. Is there personality something you can see yourself getting along with well? What is their process like? How do they communicate with you and how often? The more you speak with potential real estate agents the more you will be able to understand what you are looking for.

Be honest and open with what you are looking for

You need to have an idea of what you are looking for that you. As a first time buyer, your needs are going to be different than someone who has purchased a home before. As an experienced home buyer, you may not need as much hand holding during the process. Jotting down a list of your wants and deal-breakers as well as any concerns and hesitations you have about the process will help potential real estate agents understand you and your needs better.

Make your pick

Once you have gone through this process, it is time to choose and make your exciting new purchase! And of course, when you are ready to pack it all up and move in, don’t forget to call us. We will schedule your free in-home estimate and ensure that your move in worry and stress-free!