How to Find the Best Real Estate Professional for You

Finding the Best Real Estate Professional By Stefan Kasian

Your home is one of the most important purchases and financial investments you will ever make. Yet, according to creative financing expert Richard C. Powelson, co-author of formulas for Wealth: How to Create a Fortune in Real Estate, most of us spend more time planning a vacation than we do a real estate transaction.

The real estate process requires the orchestration of a team of professionals: the wrong choice can cost time and money and even lead to stressful legal problems. On the other hand, the right choice can make a real estate experience enjoyable and rewarding. Considering that you will be interacting with a chosen real estate professional for weeks or months to come, how do you select the right individual for you?

 

Below are some strategies to help you avoid disaster and make your match successful:

1)      Clarify the precise service(s) you need. Are you looking for general help or more specific assistance? Based on the scope of service you need, you can more precisely select the range of professionals that may best assist you.

2)      Consider the qualities of what you consider to be the “ideal professional.” Such qualities may include honesty, integrity, compassion, promptness, optimal pricing and professionalism.

3)      Draw upon the power of referrals. Ask trusted friends, neighbors, relatives and associates who they recommend. Referrals allow you to pre-select professionals who have an established track record.

4)      “Interview” prospective professionals. Set up a brief appointment to meet with those you are considering using. Ask thorough questions about their qualifications, pricing, attitude and guarantees. Communicate your needs and expectations, and ask for the same in return. Check references and look into the person’s standing with the Better Business Bureau, Chamber of Commerce and/or the local professional licensing organization.

5)      Trust your gut instincts. After gathering all the facts, consider the human element. How well do you interact with this person? Do you feel comfortable, listened to, understood? Do you feel this person will be acting in your best interest? Pay attention to how well you “click.” If you have any difficulties, reservations or hesitations about interacting with the person during your initial encounters, the quality of interaction will not likely improve in the future. Realize that you will be interacting with this person for the many weeks or months it takes to complete a real estate transaction.

By clarifying your needs and expectations, following up to gather necessary information through referrals and making an informed decision that resonates with your head and gut, you are well on your way to finding the best professional for you!