If you’re buying or selling a home, it’s important to find the right Realtor who’s a good match to your needs and preferences. In addition to looking into potential agents’ experience, credentials, and other qualities, you also need to pay attention to signs that they could be the wrong choice for you.
Here are some red flags to watch for in choosing a Realtor.
- They are not full-time agents
- They overpromise on the selling price
- They agree to a considerably lower fee
- They are not familiar with the neighborhood
- They refuse or hesitate to give you a list of their past clients
Buying or selling a home requires dedicated time and attention. Agents who are only working part-time will not be able to follow the market as closely as they should. If you’re selling, you need to work with someone who will always be available for showings. If you’re buying, the agent must always be on the lookout for new opportunities and can jump on one as soon as it comes on the market.
Some agents may try to get your listing by overpricing your home. Overpricing can cause your home to sit on the market longer, which can lead buyers to think it’s undesirable. A reliable Realtor will price your home based on market trends in the area, including the prices of similar homes that recently sold.
You might think you struck a bargain with an agent who agrees to take a significant cut on their fees – but think again. The agent could be desperate for clients, which does not speak well of their track record or experience.
Traditionally, commission fees are from 5% to 7% of the selling price, split between the selling and buying agents. An agent may agree to a lower fee if they represent both the buyer and seller. A newer company may rebate a part of their commission to the buyer or seller. There could be good reasons why an agent may offer a lower commission fee, but the important thing to remember is to choose a Realtor who can provide the best service, not just the lowest fee.
Home values within the same town or city can vary from one neighborhood to the next or even from one block to the next. An agent with in-depth local knowledge will be aware of such nuances and can guide you to the property and neighborhood that match your budget and preferences.
Additionally, if you’re buying, you’d want to work with a Realtor who knows where to find properties close to important places, such as schools or offices. If you’re selling, an agent who’s intimately familiar with your community will know how to market your home to buyers who will find it most appealing.
A good way to find out if a Realtor is a good fit is by talking to their past clients. An agent with a string of satisfied clients will only be too happy to provide you with a list as references. One who delays or refuses to give you such a list may have a worrisome history of unhappy clients.
If you’re looking for a Realtor in Cook and DuPage Counties, call Rory James and Unique Realty. They will be happy to answer all your questions about their firm and the communities they serve. Get in touch with them at (847) 971-0674 or email rjames@askunique.com