4 Questions to Ask When You Want to Choose the Right Realtor
Buying Selling
Whether you are looking to buy, sell, or rent property in NYC, choosing the right realtor is a key component to the process. There is so much detail involved in real estate transactions, and you want to be sure all of the necessary steps are taken so that everything goes as smoothly as possible. But how do you choose the right realtor in NYC?
When you are in the right place in life to rent, buy, or sell in New York City, finding a quality professional to walk you through the process is the next step to consider. Here are 4 questions to ask when you want to choose the right realtor:
Is the agent licensed?
New York has its own Division of Licensing Services, which includes real estate brokers, real estate salespersons, and appraisers. You can do a quick search through the state’s websites in order to verify licensing for all of those positions. A licensed professional can save you headaches in the future.
Can I access their current listings?
These should be easy to look up, either thorough the realtor’s website or on realtor.com. Are the listings similar to what you are in the market for? Is the website attractive and are the pictures high quality? If the agent has never sold in your area of the city, get on board with someone who knows the landscape and the pricing of nearby properties.
Are they willing to give me references?
Referrals from friends and family are a great place to start, but if you aren’t able to secure those, ask for a short list of references; recent clients should be at the top of the list. Ask the client how timely the realtor was, how he or she presented themselves, and if the results were to the client’s satisfaction. Online reviews may not be as reliable, so it’s better to talk to a real person.
Does he or she have enough experience?
Experience doesn’t come just with years of service, but also in how many renters or buyers the realtor has done business with over time. Is realty their primary business, or a part-time job on the weekends? Avoid choosing friends or family members, as a conflict of interest could arise along the way. Keep it professional and business-like.
Securing or selling property is not a transaction to take lightly and so much could go wrong if you don’t trust the person handling the process. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and dig a little deeper if you suspect something is off. A quality realtor should have a track record of dependability, trust, and efficiency. He or she should be willing to provide references, answer questions, and talk about past experience with properties in your neighborhood. It may be that you do a few interviews before you find the right fit, and that’s okay; buying, selling, and renting property in NYC is a big decision. Make sure you have the right professional on your side.
