Real estate transactions are significant investments, and it’s crucial to get them right from the outset. Selecting the right realtor can greatly diminish the stress associated with buying or selling a property. In the bustling real estate landscape of Surrey and Langley, finding the ideal realtor might seem daunting. You might wonder how to identify the best candidate to manage such a valuable asset.
To transform your real estate journey from a state of overwhelm to effortless, consider these 10 essential questions to ask a realtor before securing their services.
1. How Long Have You Been in the Business?
There’s no issue in partnering with a realtor who’s new to the game, but there’s a distinct advantage in engaging with an established real estate team. With longevity in the industry comes a wealth of completed sales, enhancing their expertise and familiarity with the local community.
An experienced real estate agent possesses a deep understanding of the market’s nuances and can manage your transaction effortlessly. Regardless of their experience level, the cornerstone of a fruitful relationship with your realtor is clear and consistent communication, ensuring trust and efficacy throughout the process.
2. Are You Part-Time or Full-Time?
Prioritize finding an agent who is a full-time agent. When dealing with investments as substantial as real estate, you want to work with someone who’s dedicated their career to understanding this field. Before diving in, learn about your realtor’s level of availability to decide if it’s a good fit.
3. How Many Properties Have You Sold/ Bought Recently?
Years in the business does not necessarily equate to experience. An agent who’s been working in real estate for 1 year could have more transactions than someone with 5 years in the business. Therefore, don’t be afraid to ask how many homes they’ve sold in the past year. On average, real estate agents close 10 homes per year. The Kim Phillips Real Estate Team closed over 70 deals in 2020 and we expect to do significantly more in 2021.
4. Do You Work with Both Buyers and Sellers?
Some agents choose to specialize in one or the other. While it’s great to hire an agent who has devoted their craft to either buying or selling, a realtor who does both can offer great insights all round. Our team works consistently with both buyers and sellers. We specialize in Cloverdale, Langley, South Surrey and the surrounding Fraser Valley.
5. What’s Your Experience in this Neighbourhood?
Are you interested in buying or selling in a specific neighbourhood? If so, you want a realtor who is not only familiar with the area but can share specifics about the local market trends. Experienced agents can share how the neighbourhood is changing, and provide insights on the quality of schools, parks, and stores nearby. This all lends to their ability to find properties suited to the type of lifestyle you’re after.
6. Do You Have Expertise in This Type of Property?
Different properties pose unique challenges. Buying a condo is different from buying a house or commercial property. Depending on the type of property you’re wanting to buy, you’ll want a realtor with knowledge in that field. Between all our team members, we have extensive knowledge in the sale process of all kinds of residential properties.
7. Have You Helped Clients at This Price Range?
What’s your budget like? Before hiring a realtor, determine what you want to spend (or make if selling), to find the appropriate agent. As properties range dramatically in BC, you’ll want to partner with a Surrey or Langley realtor who has experience in your price range. An agent who specializes in multimillion-dollar listings may not prioritize a $400,000 budget. Make sure your realtor is comfortable working in your price range to increase efficiency.
8. How Many Clients Do You Currently Have?
If an agent is overwhelmed with clients, you likely don’t want to be the straw that broke the camel’s back. While too few clients could be a red flag, too many limits the time reserved for you. Be clear about your expectations so that your realtor can assess whether they have the workforce available to best serve you. When it comes to our clients, we offer a premium real estate experience and a hands-on approach throughout the transaction.
9. Do You Have References?
Looking for the best realtor in Langley? While there are many ways to gage an agent’s efficiency, being in touch with past clients can be a strong sign of a quality realtor. A list of happy buyers and sellers goes a long way. You can also read some online reviews to gain insight into client experience. Keep in mind that the internet is accessible to anyone; therefore, if you see the odd negative response amidst a sea of positive ones, take it with a grain of salt.
10. What’s Your Plan of Action?
Whether you’re buying or selling a home, your realtor should be able to provide a clear course of action, specific to your situation. If selling a home, you can ask for a realistic timeline in terms of when your house will be sold and for how much. When buying, your realtor should be able to explain the availability in the market within your price range. All in all, you shouldn’t leave a meeting with your realtor feeling unsure about where you stand.
Take your time, do your research, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Your realtor should provide clear, direct answers to ensure clarity and understanding on both sides.
What’s Next?
If you’re looking for a realtor to help you navigate the modern real estate market in Langley, Cloverdale, and South Surrey, we’re the team for you. At Kim Philips Real Estate Team, our goal is to make you feel supported and educated throughout the real estate process. From beginning to end, we have your best interests at heart. Contact us today to speak with one of our trusted agents and start your real estate journey.