How Do You Choose An Agent?

Does anyone else think there should be an app like Tinder for choosing a real estate agent? If you’re picky with your dating life, selecting a real estate agent, whether buying or selling, should have a similar process. There are some things that you should look out for as red flags, and you should know your non negotiables to ensure a great match. So what would make you "swipe right" when choosing a real estate agent?

• Play the field. Do not just go with the very first agent you met with. Interview at least 3-5 before selecting your agent.
• Look up their licensing to make sure that they are legit. You wouldn’t go on a tinder date without googling the person, would you? You want to make sure that you are being safe and not going to get mixed up with a fake.
• Furthermore, look up their yelp reviews. Talk to past clients, see what other people are saying about this agent and see what kind of feedback you get.
• Look for the headline. Just like someone “sells” themselves on their tinder profile, an agent sells themselves with awards and recognition. See if they won anything significant, like “top agent of the year” for that given area, etc.
• Know what you like, and make sure that they are on the same page. You want to find an agent who has the right specialties, knows the area, and works in a desired price range.
• Experience is (usually) a must. It is recommended to choose an agent with at least 5 years experience. Although, less experienced agents do have their upsides. Agents who do not have a large sample of experience, typically have less clients, giving them the time to focus on you and your listing and/or needs.
• Time commitment. Many agents do not do real estate full-time. Many are stay at home moms, work other jobs, etc. You need to make sure that you know when they are available and times they are not available to set aside time for you and your needs.
• “Mr. Optimistic”. If you are selling, it is tempting to choose an agent who prices your home far above other agents prices, but do not be fooled. Typically when this happens it leads to disappointment. They might sell you on the fact that they can sell your home in 30 days, but when this happens, listings are typically up for much much longer. Choose someone with reasonable and realistic price points.
• Make sure that the chemistry is right. You do not want to be stuck with an agent that you butt heads with, you want to choose someone you feel comfortable with and that you trust. Do your research and interview multiple agents before coming to a decision.