Choosing a realtor or buyers agent is a critically important decision when looking for your next home, condo or investment property.
Purchasing real estate in Toronto is a big financial commitment and you want to be sure you are making the right choice. You are also choosing where to love in Toronto, and you want to be equally as sure that your new house will suit your needs. You want to work with someone you can trust and with whom you can share what’s important to you.
Here Are my Top 5 tips for Choosing a Realtor to Buy a Home:
1. Word of mouth vs Advertising
Happy clients are always eager to share their good experiences. Talk to local people about whom they would recommend and why. Referrals are an excellent way to find good people. Realtors who advertise are also a good resource. These professionals are demonstrating a strong commitment to their career by actively seeking to expand their client base.
2. A Local Toronto Real Estate Agent
Find a realtor who works in your price range and neighbourhoods. A local realtor with knowledge of homes in the price range that you are looking for will have the best chance of helping you find exactly what you want. Their experience will be invaluable when it comes time to make a decision. These professionals will also be actively networking with other realtors in the neighbourhood and may have insight into available properties and upcoming listings.
3. Meet and Ask Questions
Meet with the realtor before making a decision and sit down and talk to them. Is the realtor easy to talk to? Do you have confidence in them? You will be spending a lot of time with your realtor, this has to be a person that you feel comfortable with.
4. A Buyers Agent Who’s Always Available
Do you work nights and are only able to see properties in the late afternoons or evenings? Are you a stay-at-home parent who can only see properties during school or daycare hours? Make sure that your realtor is available to work during the times when you are free to see properties. Houses sell quickly in Toronto. Does the realtor have an associate that can take care of you should your primary realtor have a conflicting appointment?
5. Choose an Experienced Buyers Agent
All real estate agents have to pass provincial examinations to become licensed, they then join a local real estate board and finally work under the auspices of a licensed brokerage. Realtors and are bound by a comprehensive Code of Ethics. Remember however that there is no substitute for experience. A good realtor has learned their skills on the job. Ask to see the realtor’s track record.
Choosing a realtor is the first, very important step in the process of purchasing a home. A good realtor will gladly help and guide you from start to finish and provide you with invaluable information and advice along the way.
Buying a home is an exciting and sometimes overwhelming time. We’re here to help you find your perfect fit. Contact us – we’re looking forward to meeting you!!!
