Buying or selling a home is typically one of the biggest financial transactions you’ll ever make, so finding an experienced real estate agent to guide you through it is important. According to Zillow, 18% of sellers find their agents through referrals from friends and family. Here are some other tips on how to find a real estate agent:

Request recommendations from trusted friends and family members, especially those who’ve recently gone through the process themselves. Ask whether they were happy with their agent’s representation and what their overall experience was like. Then, check online reviews to see what other people have said about the agents they worked with. Take note of the types of feedback, and look for patterns in what others have commented on—for example, an abundance of one-star ratings may be a red flag that the agent has an issue with customer service. Also, consider how the agent responds to negative feedback; if they’re combative or call out the reviewer by name, that could be an indicator of how they’ll handle potential issues with clients as they come up during a transaction.

It’s also a good idea to choose an agent who regularly works in your immediate area. That way, they’ll have a strong understanding of the neighborhood and local market trends—including homes that have recently sold in your area and ones that are currently listed for sale. This in-depth knowledge is essential for determining how much your property is worth and how competitive the market is in your area. Read more https://www.helpinghomesrei.com/

Lastly, consider whether you want to work with an agent who represents only buyers or sellers, or both. While agents who specialize in either buyer or seller representation aren’t required to do so, those who do often have more experience dealing with the unique concerns that can arise during each side of a transaction.

Once you’ve narrowed your options, interview several agents and choose the one who seems to best fit your needs. This includes discussing what you hope to achieve in your homebuying or selling process and how they would go about helping you achieve those goals. Also, make sure you’re clear on how each agent charges for their services. In New York City, for instance, StreetEasy Experts earn a 5-6% commission on their sales, which is paid by the seller at closing and is not reflected in the listing price of the property.

As you interview, be sure to ask each agent for references so that you can contact former clients and discuss their experiences working with them. Be sure to choose an agent who was able to answer your questions clearly and thoroughly. And don’t forget to factor in any additional fees, such as those associated with a mortgage broker or title insurance policy. Ultimately, the agent you choose will be your partner during one of the most financially significant and stressful parts of your life—so do your homework and find the right fit.