Finding a good a Realtor
As promised, I have attempted to show you both sides of many scenarios throughout this website and in keeping with that spirit, did you know that in surveys of the general public real estate agents are rated below second hand car salesmen? I wonder how bad that makes the second hand car salesmen feel?
Joking aside, the top two complaints of those who have worked with agents is (1) they do not listen and (2) they do not return calls.
Obviously, this does not apply to every agent out there. Finding a good agent up front will greatly increase the likelihood of having a good experience. Ask your friends who they have worked with and how they would rate them, talk with agents at open houses and see if they are compatible with your way of thinking (personality fit), or you could go with this sparkling character, i.e. Conor MacEvilly.
Try calling them a few times and see how quickly they get back to you. If they take too long, go with someone else. If they start showing you 3 bedroom craftsmen when all you are interested in is 2 bed townhomes, go with someone else. As when choosing a lender, particularly when you are a first time buyer or seller, it is advisable to work with someone who will sit down and spend time with you in person and explain the whole process.
Remember that if after receiving repeatedly poor service, you are free at anytime to terminate the “relationship” and look for another agent. Time spent up front choosing a good realtor will make the whole experience a lot less stressful, and hopefully successful.
