7 Important Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Real Estate Agent

By: ROS Team

Most people need a real estate agent while buying or selling their property in NYC. Some want to get rid of their property as soon as possible. Some look for a great house in a great location. Whatever your intention is, make sure to hire the right real estate agent.

But how will you pick the right one among the hundreds of real estate agents operating in NYC?

Don’t worry! Asking these basic questions to your real estate agent can help you out.

Are You a Full Time Agent?

Many people have forayed into real estate after being inspired by success stories and TV shows like HGTV. And most of them are doing it as their side job.

Keep in mind that real estate is a skill-based profession.

A professional agent is more familiar with the ins and outs of the real estate agent than someone who is a handyman by day and a real estate agent by evening.

A part-timer might not have in-depth knowledge of the property business.

You may find yourself caught between delays and hassles once you hired them. Someone who is doing a different job or having a business meeting in another location won’t available to talk to you when you need them.

This is why you should go for a knowledgeable and professional real estate agent in NYC.

Can You Provide Me with the Contact of Your Clients?

This is an important question to ask your potential RE agent.

The right agent shouldn’t have any problem providing you with the contacts of their clients.

Call a few of them to know their take on the agent’s services. It will help you know about their efficiency as an agent.

How Long You Have Been in Business?

The experience of your real estate agent does matter.

Given the complicated NYC real estate scenario, an inexperienced agent can cost you money and time, even worse, lead you to the risk of losing out on a great real estate deal. An experienced real estate agent knows how to get your desired property at the desired location; helps you in negotiation, and owns a vast network. Generally, an experienced agent does at least 10 transactions a year.

How Will You Negotiate for Us?

This is an important question to ask, whether the agent helps you in buying or selling the property. They should have efficient negotiation skills. A good real estate agent analyzes the situation and decides the best move to help you stay on top of the deal.

Will You be Available for Home Inspection?

A home inspection is done to figure out the flaws in the property you are going to buy, keeping you informed about the existing and potential issues.

However, many agents don’t consider it necessary to show up during this important process. But your agent shouldn’t. Ask them if they can be available during the home inspection. If not, consider moving to another agent.

A good real estate agent will keep a close eye on the work of the inspectors. He or she can help you negotiate the price based on a potential or existing repair.

How Many Properties Have You Closed in My Neighborhood?

The real estate transactions are driven by the specification of individual neighborhoods, including schools, plans, and traffic patterns. Looking for an agent with experience in the area where you live or want to move in can benefit you. Make sure the agent has a proven record of closing deals in the neighborhood you are looking for.

What About Your Network?

You will also require other professionals like home inspectors, title companies, and lenders as you go through the property transaction. You can’t ask for more if your agent supplies you with a written list of these professionals. However, don’t let them push their vendors on you.

Hiring the right real estate agent can benefit you down the road. The questions listed here are just the tip of the iceberg. Therefore, if you have other concerns on your mind, speak them to your agent. Stay proactive and responsive throughout the transaction. Best of luck!!!

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