When you decide the time has come to shop for a new house, you want to stack the deck in your favour. That means working with a good real estate agent, and there are none better than the sales representatives at Royal LePage.
Defining real estate agents and REALTORS®
- All real estate agents must be licensed. In addition to having a real estate license, most Royal LePage agents are also REALTORS®. The term REALTOR ® is a trademark that identifies a licensed real estate agent as a member of The Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA). All REALTORS ® make a pledge to adhere to a strict code of ethics and standards.
- Your agent or REALTOR® will act as your eyes, your ears and your voice throughout the home buying process. You need to feel assured that you’re receiving the best information and advice, so you can have confidence that you’re making a savvy real estate investment. That makes choosing the right agent for your needs a top priority.
- You’ll be working closely with your real estate agent, so it’s important to choose someone who understands your situation, knows the local real estate market, and can give you the advice and guidance you need.
Asking the right questions
We encourage you to interview several agents before choosing the one you want to work with. Determine which features of your new home are most important to you (see Needs vs. Wants), and ask the prospective agent about their knowledge in those areas:
- How well does he know your desired neighbourhood?
- How familiar is he with the issues associated with older homes?
- If you’re prepared to do some renovations, to what extent is he familiar with remodeling pricing?
- If you’re a senior or have other particular needs, does he hold a Seniors Real Estate Specialist designation, or specialize in your needs?
Questions to ask your agent
Finding a real estate agent is important, but finding the right one for you is paramount. Here are questions to ask prospective agents and help you narrow down your list:
How can you help me find the right home?
Good agents will impress you with their knowledge of the local real estate market and their ability to appreciate what you are looking for in a home. They should be able to show you what is available in your price range, and how the features and benefits of specific houses and neighbourhoods fit your requirements.
Given our particular circumstances, what advice would you offer?
Every family is different, and a good real estate agent appreciates this. He or she should be able to advise you on how to find a home that meets your unique circumstances and lifestyle.
Why should I work with just one agent?
If you don’t have an exclusive agency agreement with your sales representative, you’re not legally obligated to work only with him to find your next home. It may, however, greatly benefit you to do so. Talk to your prospective real estate agent to find out his position, and then determine what’s best for you.
What happens when you are not available?
Agents work extremely long hours and try to be available whenever and wherever you need them. But however accommodating they try to be, they are not always available. Ask your prospective real estate agents what arrangements they have in place when they are not available.
What makes your real estate service special?
Every agent tries hard to give top-notch service, but what distinguishes a really good one from the rest? Ask them. You may be surprised at what they have to say and, just as importantly, how they say it.
Next steps
When the interviews are over, it’s time to make a choice. Think about what the real estate agent told you, and ask yourself some questions:
- Did they seem trustworthy and honest?
- Were they realistic when discussing your home purchase?
- Did they communicate well? Were you on the same page?
- Were they committed, motivated and experienced?
