Finding a real estate agent, the right one, can make the difference in the quality of the experience. Because searching for a home, or selling a home, may be the largest single financial decision you make, interviewing three agents is a wise exercise for you to undertake. If you had been attending open houses before you reached this point, you have already been interacting with agents and met some that you are already considering. You had probably eliminated several before you left the open house. You may consider other agents you are acquainted with in the community.
The agent you choose must be able to wear many hats. Because this process often takes time, that will be spent with that person, bear that fact in mind when you are deciding. Your agent will become your real estate counselor, an information resource and your messenger. The fact is that it is extremely difficult to know in advance how they will perform. Asking the right questions helps both parties better envision the future. Your interests will be best served taking responsibility in determining, as best you can, what to expect before you engage them. Click here to learn the details.
Let’s look at some specific questions sent in by DearMonty readers from across the country. Read more Q&A articles about the “Finding an agent” stage of the Home Selling process.
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Can a For-Sale-By-Owner pay a commission to an agent for finding the buyer?
Our reader today exemplifies the plight of the for-sale-by-owner. While I applaud those who venture out to reduce expenses, rather than earn more, real estate remains a bit like the wild west even today. There are no enforceable standards of practice in an industry where your competitors are also your best customers. Interestingly enough, I…
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Home seller questions agent motives
Reader Question: We used a buyer agent to find a new home. Now we need to sell our home. We got him to look at our house. The lower commission does not seem to motivate him, and he is not interested in us now that we have concluded buying a home. He wants to…
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Do real estate agents negotiate fees on dual transactions?
Reader Question: Do real estate agents negotiate fees on dual transactions? My wife and I are in the process of downsizing. We have shopped neighborhoods and have chosen where we would like to land. In this process, we have had one particular agent show us 5 or 6 homes. Now it is time to list…
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Listing agent fumbles – can I cancel the contract?
seller picked a poor agent and is seeking advice on how to cancel the listing agreement.