Real Estate Investing

I like working with people I know and people they know.  That’s the perfect world of a real estate agent - friends, family, colleagues, acquaintances … and all their friends. However, life doesn’t always happen like we want it.

Let’s say you’re new in town and you need to find a Realtor - how do you know if the person you get is good?  Here are some quick tips to help you find an agent who is knowledgeable, professional, and who actually CARES for you.

Check for designations

There are a vast number of designations that agents can earn. When a Realtor achieves a designation, they will have taken a certain number of classroom hours, plus will have met other measurable goals (for example, have closed 5 transactions).  Some of the well-known designations include:

• Accredited Buyer Representative (ABR)
• Certified Residential Specialist (CRS)
• Graduate Realtor Institute (GRI)

Open Houses

When you go to an open house, the agent greeting you may or may not be the listing agent.  If that Realtor does not have the home listed, they are there to meet potential customers because they need the business.  These agents can be very helpful and informed, but it wouldn’t hurt to ask for references.  Also, if you go to an open house and are already working with an agent, don’t lead the open house agent on.  Be very upfront with that fact that you’re already represented.  Hopefully the agent will continue to provide you with information, but I have personally experienced open house agents shutting down.

Online by Social Networking

Believe me when I say that agents are ALL OVER the social networking sites like Facebook, MySpace, Twitter, Plaxo, and too many more to mention.  If you’ve accepted a “friendship” from an agent, read what they say.  If they seem knowledgeable and informed, they probably are.  Better yet… if other people talk about good experiences with them, then that’s just as good as a personal referral.

Personal Websites

Visit the agent’s website.  Some people may like seeing that they have a gazillion listings because clearly they have experience.  Other people view mega agents as too busy to provide that personal touch they desire.  It’s really up to the individual and what’s important to them.  I would recommend that first-time home buyers use an agent who can take the time to answer all their questions and hold their hands throughout the process rather than turning them over to an assistant.

Personal Referrals

This is by far one of the best ways to find a reputable real estate agent.  Again if a friend or family member have already worked wtih someone who did a great job for them, you know the experience will be just as good for you!

There are a ton of outstanding Realtors available, but take the time to do a little bit of research before you jump in.