Your best choice is not necessarily the one related to you, and might work for a family business (or a Fortune-400 company). The most suitable Realtor for you gets the fact that you have a choice in agents, and doesn't get hurt feelings if you have a different opinion.
Tastes, budgets and needs will change depending upon who the buyer is. Some home shoppers need garage parking. Some shoppers want to be near the Metro. Some shoppers love the fact that Nesbitt Realty will rebate them $1,550 when they use me to purchase 4332 Utica Ave. (Others couldn't care less.) Realtors are like shoppers, licensed real estate advisers have different persistence and persistence.
Here's my words to the wise for choosing the dream real estate professional for you when you're buying in Alexandria:
Check out real estate pro referrals. — I like Angie’s List because I know that Angie’s List voice verifies each review. You can also see if the agent or brokerage has any awards for client satisfaction.
Interview several real estate professionals — There is no one-size-fits-all. I know that I'm not the real estate agent for every buyer client. The real estate professional you choose should be able to clearly understand your needs.
Don't under estimate the value of chemistry. — Interpersonal skills are as important as professional skills. You don't want to have to explain the same thoughts and ideas over and over.
Ask them how they search for row houses. — When deciding on a Realtor, ask how they seek homes. Some Realtors have their own preferred listings that they favor. But you want what’s dream for you, not what’s most suitable for your Realtor. So make sure the Realtor is willing to search high and low to find the best residence for you. That includes using the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) as well as their own personal network.
Read paperwork carefully. — The Commonwealth of Virginia requires all licensed agents to sign a representation agreement before showing properties or having material discussions about a specific place of residence. Be very wary of any agent that is not concerned about getting a representation agreement signed. A representation agreement describes the agent's responsibilities and your obligations when a real estate agent shows you a place in the City of Alexandria. Some representation agreements describe hidden administrative fees of $500 to $1000 that you must pay at closing. (Our does not.)
Stuart Nesbitt is a Realtor® licensed in the Commonwealth of Virginia. His office is located in Fairfax County near the City of Alexandria in Belle Haven. He was born and raised in Northern Virginia and attended Fairfax County schools. Call him at any time to discuss your real estate needs.