Keep this in mind when considering agents

• Recommended by friends, family, and co-workers. They’ll give you honest feedback on what they went through and if they would go with the same agent again. Remember, you don’t have to go with the first agent you meet. Just like when you choose any other important advisors in your life, you want to check around first and see who will be the best fit for you to help you meet your goals.

• Makes you comfortable. Your gut will tell you if this is someone you can work with for a period of time, and if you will feel at ease when asking any questions or expressing your concerns. You’re going to have a working relationship with this person and it will be stressful and exhausting at times. Go with someone who can reduce such tension, has a sense of humor at times, and doesn’t scare you even if buying a home is a scary endeavor for you. Think of your real estate agent as your buying coach, and sometimes therapist and sometimes cheerleader, and all the other things you might need along the way.

• Takes the time to listen to you in order to help you realize your needs and wants. You should never feel forced or feel like you’re forced into anything at any time. A good agent will listen to you and will help you realize what you need and want by asking questions and truly listening to your answers.

• Communicates clearly and regularly.
  Make sure your agent is easily reached via cell phone, text, or email; and gets back to you in a timely manner. And, on the flip side, that the agent keeps in touch with you on a regular basis with updates on listings and other information on your home search.

• Respects your time.
  Your agent knows you’re busy so it’s important they are organized and efficient when it comes to house hunting. They’ll ask you what days and times work best with your schedule.