OfflineI have attached a worksheet you can use to interviw a NEW realtor. You can customize it for your use but it works great.
Choosing an agent can be confusing, especially when there are so many to choose from. Among questions about an agent's experience, local market knowledge credentials, cost and marketing plan, here are 13 questions to ask an agent before deciding he or she is the right one for you.
* Do you work full-time or part-time as a real estate agent?
Full-time work typically means more attention for you.
* How many homes have you sold in my neighborhood?
An agent who specializes in the area in which you are selling your home is preferable. This agent will be the most familiar with recent sales activity and will be able to recommend a good market price for your home.
* How many other sellers are you representing now?
The busiest agents often are the most efficient.
* Will you handle all aspects of my transaction or will you delegate some tasks to a sales associate or administrative assistant?
A knowledgeable assistant can be invaluable, but make sure you connect with your agent regularly.
* How much can I expect to pay?
Commissions are negotiable depending on what kind of listing arrangement you have with your agent.
* At what price do you think my home can sell given the current market?
This will allow the agent to display his knowledge of your market.
* Can you give me a comparative market analysis (CMA) of recent sales in the area and homes currently on the market?
This should contain listing and sales prices for recently sold homes as well as listing prices and the listing dates of homes currently for sale. It also should include detailed property descriptions (such as square footage and numbers of bedrooms and baths).
* What does your marketing package contain in addition to a comparative market analysis?
Listing presentations should also include a suggested asking price, information on the local housing market, advertising plans, a discussion of various listing agreements, and an analysis of sale proceeds at various price points and commission levels.
* Can I list the house with you for 60 to 90 days?
Most consumer experts agree that a three-month listing period, or less, is best. You can always renew the listing agreement at that time.
* Is your license in good standing?
You should check an agent's certification yourself with your state's Department of Real Estate. Many states provide this information online. For example, in California residents may check at http://www.dre.cahwnet.gov/licstats.htm
* How many years of education and experience do you have?
Experience and continuing education typically make for better agents.
* Are you also a broker and/or a Realtor and have you invested for yourself?
Brokers have more stringent licensing requirements and responsibilities. Realtors are voluntary members of the National Association of Realtors, a trade group.
* Can you provide me with the names and phone numbers of past clients who have agreed to be references?
Insights from past customers can help you learn more about an agent and give you a greater comfort level.
Anita
"Just Do It!"
Check out that Diva!! Thanks A#1!!
Psalms 118:23 "This is the LORD's doing; it is marvellous in our eyes."
that most realtors talk to you like you are stupid and if they dont see you with dollar bills falling off of you - they dont want to deal. A true realtor can see past the obvious and see what lies ahead. If you step to them correctly and tell them what you are doing and that your credit is not the best and they can grasp the concept that you are making a major commitment to this REI stuff and have a solid plan of action then you have one hell of a partner there - which is precisely what HAVE.
Most realtors forget that hey work for you - you dot work for them. Dont be rude but let them know you will be firm and you KNOW What you are doing even if they dont think o. Tell them to think of you as an equal and YOU WILL TREAT THEM as one.
Stand firm, but steadfast.
Anita
"Just Do It!"
A-MEN, i'm in the market for a realtor right now, and i totally agree with ant here, you need to ask these and similar type questions for a true fit to your team, SULLY.
YOUR HERO, SULLY
if you are looking for a realtor that fits "YOU" Dont forget to print the attachment
Anita
"Just Do It!"
I am reposting this for those that may need it
Anita
"Just Do It!"
Thanks Anita for that information. I have around 40 pages left to finish the book. I have also been looking for a Realtor, Investor, Private Lender with no luck. Bottom line is trying to find someone that can be trusted is scary. Although I am terrified about taking that first step, I know I can do it. This is my dream and only I can make it happen.
Thanks again,
Janie
Take the time to find out what the Realtor has to offer. Let them know what you expect of them. It is important that you also explain what you, as an investor, intend to do, and how you are going to do it. To make a good, profitable relationship for both of you, you need to understand each other. I wish that I had spent more time getting to know the investors that I worked with early in my career. It would have saved me some time and money on some and made me alot more money on others.
You learn from your mistakes, Al
"NOW GO FIND A DEAL"
And listen to AL....
yes Listen to AL, he's been on both sides
Anita
"Just Do It!"
It is all in the posts above. Must be I didn't have my Harrison tweed sport coat on when I talked to the first four realtor's. They looked at me like I wasn't even there. For now< I will stick with my REI club. At least they listen and help. On to better things...Jan
anita thanks for the interview sheet for realtors. it is a big help for me and i really appreciate it. thanks again.
dee