How to choose the best San Francisco Real Estate Agent
A reader asks:I am trying to choose an agent to represent me for locating a property to buy in San Francisco. After looking through the Sunday paper, I am finding all sorts of Realtors who claim to be the top agent for their company. How do I choose the right one for me?
Our reply:
Choosing a Realtor is not as hard as you think. The old adage tends to be true; "People do business with people they like." When buying property in San Francisco, you are lucky. We have some of the top agents in the country doing business right here in the City. Our suggestion is to pick several and interview them before deciding to work with one as different agents have different styles. One may like to use e-mail while others prefer to use the telephone. Another may contact you all times of the day while others may not call you unless they have something to show. You get the idea.
The online magazine, Fifty Plus has a feature that lists some things you might consider. Here are a few key points they make:
- Do start by asking family and friends if they can recommend an agent that they have successfully worked with in the past.
- Compile a list of several agents and take time to talk to each before choosing one. You want an agent who listens well and understands your needs.
- Your ideal agent knows the local area well and has resources and contacts to help you in your search. Overall, you want to choose an agent that makes you feel comfortable and can provide all the knowledge and services you need.
- Another way to become familiar with realtors in your area is to check local newspaper and other advertisements. You can, of course, meet a realtor at any open house you visit, especially in areas where you think you might want to live.
- Once you’ve narrowed down your choices to a couple of real estate agents, interview them to find out which one has the best combination of experience and knowledge in the type of home and area that you are interested in. Ask them for references from previous buyers and sellers who have worked with them.
- Keep in mind that the real estate agent will be spending a great deal of time and effort to help you find the right home and will not be paid until the transaction is completed.
The American Homeowners Association has another good article with their top 10 tips.
In the end, choose someone who works the way that you do and communicates as much or as little as you prefer. Take a look at our previous article to the For Sale By Owner for a list of some things to expect from your Realtor. Good luck!
- Mick Orton
posted by SFResidence.com @ 8:19 AM
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