Buying

5 Tips for Interviewing an Agent to Help You Buy a Home

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Buying a home is a big deal. It’s almost certainly one of the largest investments you’ll ever make, which is why getting it right is so crucial. Choose a great agent, and they’ll help ensure that this major purchase is a smooth and successful one. It sounds simple, but how can you be sure that the professional you’re planning to work with has the knowledge and skills to do the job well? Often, it comes down to the interview process.

When you’re buying a home, here are five tips for interviewing agents…

1) Do your homework

It’s never been easier to research the services an agent provides—before you ever pick up the phone. By doing some googling in your area, you can narrow down your list of candidates to include only those who can meet your needs. Look beyond credentials and neighbourhood expertise to consider how they present online. Do they appear professional? Does their website clearly convey the advantages they can provide? You should also keep an eye out for testimonials and Google reviews.

2) Ask about their experience

Once you’re ready to start sitting down with agents, it’s time to prepare some basic questions. Start by asking each professional about their experience working with buyers. What does their track record look like? How many satisfied home hunters have they helped in the last year? The truth is, there are agents out there who only complete one or two deals annually. If you want to work with someone who knows the purchase process inside and out, that’s worth considering.

3) Discuss their neighbourhood expertise

When you’re buying a home, few factors matter as much as location. From green space, schools, and neighbourhood amenities to the local market, a community’s particulars will determine whether it’s right for you. That’s why any agent you’re considering should know your communities of interest—thoroughly. Ask how long they’ve worked in these neighbourhoods, and try to get a sense of how well-acquainted they are with them. If they can talk about their favourite cafes and local price points on the spot, they likely have the knowledge you’re looking for!

4) Ask for specific examples

It’s easy to claim expertise, but showing it is something else entirely. That’s why we suggest asking any agent you interview for examples. Can they tell you about a time they secured a better outcome for a buyer through negotiations? What about a home hunter who found the ideal property (or avoided a lemon) thanks to their due diligence? When it comes to discussing the buying process, a true expert will have plenty of experience to draw on.

5) Request references

Lastly, be sure to ask the agent you’re interviewing if you can speak to some of their past buyer clients. There’s no better way to learn what working with someone is really like than by talking to those who have made it to closing with them. How comfortable did they feel going to the agent whenever they had questions? Did the advice offered lead to an outcome that met (or exceeded) their expectations? A professional agent will have no problem pointing you towards buyers who can answer these questions.

Preparing to buy a home? We know the process inside and out, and we’d love to walk you through it! Get in touch to get started!