How to Talk to a Real Estate Agent
Buying a home can be a stressful process. You want to find your dream home at the right price in a timely fashion. One of the best ways to make the home buying process go as smoothly as possible is to communicate effectively with your real estate agent.
This is easier said than done, but if you can find a real estate agent who you feel comfortable working with and talking to, finding a home will be much easier. These tips will help you communicate effectively, and get you into your new home sooner.
Work with one agent
Be direct and ask your agent about terms of exclusivity if you are unsure. Often if you sign a contract with an agent, it is expected that you will only work with him or her.
If your agent expects exclusivity, do not communicate with or call other agents. If you find a home that you want to see, contact your agent, not the realtor on the listing. You hired your agent to find you the right home.
Going behind your agent’s back could potentially ruin your client-agent relationship and affect your communication. Your agent may not make you a priority, making it more difficult to find your dream home.
Be clear with how you want to communicate
Do you prefer phone calls, texts, emails, or face-to-face? How often would you like to meet with your agent? You want to maintain an open line of communication with your agent at all times. The method and frequency that you talk with your agent play an important role in how successfully you communicate with your agent.
Also, be reasonable. You should feel like a priority to your agent, but keep in mind that he or she has other clients. Ask your agent for a typical timeframe of when you should expect to hear back from him or her. That way, you know if and when to follow up.
Communicate your wants and needs
Your needs should be a list of what you absolutely cannot live without in a house. Your wants should include perks but not deal breakers. Be upfront about your wants and needs so your realtor can easily find exactly what you are looking for in a home. If you aren’t clear with your agent from the beginning, you will waste your time looking at houses that you’ll never purchase.
Ask questions
Asking questions is another way to communicate effectively with your agent. Ask questions before you sign with the agent, during the home search and after you have found your home. Write down all of the questions you have if you cannot meet with your agent right away.
Effective communication with your realtor is one of the best ways to make your home buying experience pleasant and stress-free. Don’t be afraid to offer feedback or suggestions if you feel unhappy with how you and your agent communicate. Be open and honest throughout the process, and before you know it, you will be ready to move into your dream home.
