The best choice of real estate pro is not necessarily the one with the most years on the job, and is not necessarily the one related to you. The right Realtor appreciates your needs, and helps point out the benefits as well as the flaws of fascinating multi-family buildings.
Here's how to shop the dream real estate pro for you when you're buying a home with 2 bedrooms:
- Check out Realtor 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.
- Talk to multiple real estate pros — The real estate pro should have time to talk to you. If you pick the most popular real estate agent in Arlington, you might find yourself working with a junior associate affiliated with that Realtor. You sometimes need to see the home you don't want to buy to feel comfortable with the home you will acquire. It's the same with Realtors.
- It's important that you get along well with your agent. — You will probably be working with your Realtor anywhere from 2 to 12 months, so it helps to get along with them. We all have unique personalities, and that's the way it should be. But when working with someone professionally, if helps if their personality “meshes” well with your own.
- Ask how they hunt. — When selecting a real estate agent, ask how they find multi-family buildings. Some Realtors have their own preferred listings that they favor. But you want what’s ideal for you, not what’s most suitable for your agent. So make sure the Realtor is willing to search high and low to find the most suitable pied-a-terre for you. That includes using the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) as well as their own personal network.
- Make sure you understand what you sign. — The Commonwealth of Virginia requires all licensed agents to sign a representation agreement before showing properties or having material discussions about a specific place. Be very wary of any agent that is not concerned about getting a representation agreement signed. Some representation agreements describe hidden administrative fees of $500 to $1000 that you must pay at closing. (Our does not.) A representation agreement describes the agent's responsibilities and your obligations when a real estate agent shows you a multi-family building in Arlington County.
- Check out Realtor 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.
