Selecting the right real estate agent to help you buy or sell your home is essential to a smooth transaction. For the best possible experience, you should consider a professional's background, personality and responsiveness. Here are some tips to help you choose and work with your real estate agent.
 
How to Choose a Real Estate Agent

1. Purchasers who do their homework can save thousands of Euros and will experience a smooth purchasing process, so why waste time and resources trying to go it alone, when you could find a professional who specializes in your chosen area. A RE/MAX Eralia agent can help you no matter what your needs are.

2. Your first step should always be to ask friends and family members for referrals, as someone you know and trust may have a RE/MAX agent in mind to help you meet your real estate requirements.

3. Are you moving or purchasing property overseas or far away? Take a look at www.remax-eralia-costadelsol.com as we can connect you with a RE/MAX agent anywhere in the world who can offer great expertise and a professional service.  Take advantage of RE/MAX real estate agents’ local knowledge, languages and experience, it could prove invaluable in such an important life changing situation.

What to Ask in The Interview

1. If selling, ask the real estate agent how he or she would establish a listing price. Request a Comparative Market Analysis, which shows the market value of similar homes in the area that are for sale or have recently sold.

2. Ask the agent how he or she would market your property. Understand that some agents may prefer to first tour your home and then put together a customized marketing plan to present at a later meeting.

3. Ask the agent how often you should expect to hear from him or her. Know how and when you will communicate to avoid unrealistic expectations.

4. Pay attention to the agent's listening skills. Does he or she cut you off before you've finished a sentence? There's nothing worse than looking at houses you have no interest in because the real estate agent has not listened carefully to your needs, or having your home on the market too long because it's priced incorrectly and the wrong buyers are being targeted.

5. Ask the agent what his or her fee structure is. Does he or she require a percentage of the sales price or work for a flat fee? Will the agent be paid another way?

6. If you are unsatisfied with a prospect's plans or personality, thank him or her for taking the time to meet with you and repeat the process with another real estate agent. It can be time-consuming, but it's worthwhile. Once you've found the right real estate agent to represent you, hold up your end of the relationship. There are simple things you can do to help your real estate agent get you the best deal.

How to Work With Your Real Estate Agent

1. If you are selling, create an information sheet that lists your home's features and best qualities, especially those that others might overlook. Your agent may be able to use the information when marketing your home.

2. When selling, talk to the real estate agent about cosmetic improvements. Your home may need fresh paint or new carpet.

3. If selling, give it a good clean to show your property at its best advantage. It may be a pain but keep the bathroom mirrors wiped down and sweep or vacuum the floors daily.

4. If buying, be clear about what you want. Make a list of your priorities from 1 to 10. You can always revise the list, but give your agent something concrete so that he or she can research available listings more efficiently.

Food for Thought

1. Hiring a professional real estate agent will give you a strong advantage. Although many practitioners work part-time, RE/MAX Associates are full-time professionals who provide their complete attention and expertise.

2. Your real estate agent is an authority you hire to help you make the right decisions, but you have the final word.

3. Your residence is likely to be the biggest single investment you'll ever make. Buy and sell wisely.

4. Office environment can say a lot about a businessperson. Is it clean and organized? Do the office hours make it easily accessible? Are staff members pleasant and helpful?

5. Remember that home values fluctuate with the economy, be realistic about the current state of the market.