Working with a REALTOR® can save you time, money, and trouble. Nearly 8 out of 10 consumers believe REALTORS® can show buyers a better selection of homes than they can find on their own, according to an independent survey of the general public released by the National Association of REALTORS®.  78% of the general public believe real estate professionals offer them a broader selection of housing alternatives than they would otherwise find. 74% agree that using a Real Estate Broker saves time, and 70% agree that Real Estate Professionals make buying or selling a home much easier.

Not all licensed real estate agents and brokers are REALTORS®. Those who have the additional resources and support provided by their association, including a strict Code of Ethics to help assure fair and professional treatment for all.

 

CHOOSING A REALTOR®

Owning a home may be the American Dream, but the process of buying and selling one can be complex. You can ensure a smoother transaction through the help of a realtor, and doing your planning on home buying. Here are some tips to help you find the REALTOR® best suited to serve you:

  • Ask friends, neighbors, relatives, and co-workers who’ve recently bought or sold homes in your area. Which company and agent did they work with? What kind of service did they receive? Would they work with the same agent again?
  • Check out FOR SALE signs in your area and note which ones have SOLD stickers.  You want to be sure you’re choosing a company and REALTOR® who gets the job done.
  • Attend open houses in your area. At open houses, you can watch agents in action, judge their sales expertise, and collect information on properties that are competing with yours. A top-notch agent will provide a fact sheet about the property and will be prepared with information on similar properties and listings for the entire area.
  • Look for companies specializing in the kind of real estate you want to buy or sell. If you’re purchasing a new home, for example, you’ll want to look for a company that specializes in residential real estate rather than commercial property or appraisals.
  • Target REALTORS® located on your side of town. If an agent lives in the area, he or she is far more likely to have more information about area schools, businesses, and places of worship.
  • Narrow your search to five or fewer. Once you’ve narrowed your search, you’re ready to start making contacts and can begin interviewing agents.
  • Find out whether the agent is a member of a professional association. The titles REALTOR® and REALTOR-ASSOCIATE® designate membership in a local board of REALTORS®, a state association such as the Utah Association of REALTORS® and the National Association of REALTORS®. Members are required to follow a strict code of ethics and are encouraged to pursue continuing real estate education.
  • Look for an agent who shows enthusiasm and a positive attitude toward your house. That isn’t necessarily the person who talks fastest or longest. It may be the agent who asks a lot of questions and takes notes on decorating, construction, landscaping, and personal property that will remain with the house.

The decision about whether to choose an experienced or inexperienced agent is a personal one. A licensed but inexperienced agent can do a fine job if he or she has completed an in-depth training program and is being guided by an experienced agent or broker. Sometimes a rookie’s enthusiasm and motivation outweigh a lack of experience. Some sellers, on the other hand, prefer working with a veteran REALTOR® who has established a successful sales record.