HOW TO SELECT A REALTOR®

Using the professional services of a REALTOR® is a smart decision. After all, this may be one of the largest investment decisions you’ll ever make. So it’s essential to find the right Realtor for you.

The Fraser Valley Real Estate Board has over 3,400 members. That’s a lot of options! Selecting the right Realtor for you can make a world of difference. Each one of our members brings an individual collection of unique insights and experience to the role.

Some are new Realtors, looking to build a career and eager for clients. Others have been in the business for 20 years, or more, and are well established. Some Realtors specialize in a particular community or property type, such as townhouses or commercial properties.

No matter which Realtor you choose, he or she becomes a critical part of the selling and buying process. The right Realtor has the ability to make the property transaction seem less complicated, less stressful and maybe even enjoyable.

Bottom line: Realtors are there to help. Make sure to find a good match for your unique situation, be clear about what you expect of them, and achieve great results.

SMART QUESTIONS TO ASK

Do your homework

The Board recommends that you meet with a few Realtors before choosing one. That way you’ll learn about their experience, their approach to buying and selling, their knowledge of the local market, and whether or not you have a good rapport and sense of confidence after talking with them.

  • How long have you been a licensed Realtor?
  • Have you worked in this community a long time?
  • Why did you choose this area to practice real estate?
  • What do you tell people about this community?

Get referrals

People will refer professionals they’ve liked working with so ask family, friends and co-workers if they know a Realtor they would recommend.  Ask why they recommend a certain Realtor — that’s important because your needs may be different than theirs. Maybe they liked the Realtor’s personality, or the person was a friend of a friend. You aren’t looking for a friend, you want the best person to help you achieve your goals.

  • What was it about your Realtor that you liked?
  • Did anyone recommend them to you?
  • Was the Realtor skilled in a particular way?
  • Are you related to that Realtor as a friend or relative?

Communication is critical

Good communication is the foundation of a solid working relationship.  Although charm and personality go a long way, it takes more than that to make a good communicator. First of all, you need a Realtor who really listens to what you tell them, makes notes, and asks follow-up questions. It’s important for you to agree how they  will keep you informed, answer your questions, or give advice in a timely way.

  • Is there anything else you need to know from me before we continue?
  • How will you stay in touch with me — meetings, calls, texts, email?
  • How often will you be contacting me — every day, every week?
  • Are there any times when you will not be available and who will I deal with then?

Listening is key

Communication is a two-way street, so listen to the way a Realtor responds to your questions and concerns.  Are they thorough? Are they frank and open about the positives and negatives of your situation? When you ask for details, do they provide them, or simply make sweeping comments to reassure you, but without real specifics?

  • What will be covered in our service agreement?
  • Will I be able to cancel our contract if I chose to?
  • Do you think my asking price is reasonable?
  • How are properties similar to mine selling right now?
  • How will I know that my offer is a competitive offer?

Ask questions

It is never rude to ask tough questions when so much of your financial future is on the line.  For example, how much it is going to cost you for the services of your chosen “exceptional communicator, marketing genius, real estate guru, longtime resident and member in good standing of the real estate board” Realtor?

  • How would you go about marketing my home?
  • Will you explain the documents involved in my transaction to me such as contracts, agreements and what I need to sign?
  • What will it cost me for your services?
  • Will you help me to stage my home for showings?
  • Is there any advantage to choosing you over another Realtor?
  • What else do I need to know?

List your top priorities

If you were to get multiple offers for your home, that may mean success in your books. For others it’s more important to sell for top dollar, while for others it’s a quick sale. If you are buying a property, you may be more interested in the lowest price, or the best neighbourhood. Rank your priorities to guide you and your Realtor to a satisfying outcome.

  • What are the chances we could sell within 3 months?
  • Do you think I will get offers above my asking price?
  • Sellers seem to be getting multiple offers in this area — how will that affect my search?
  • Is there anything I should do to improve my chances of selling for the price I want?