1. Ask others for a recommendation of REALTORS® in the Mobile Metro area or go to a professional referral source.
Often, the best tips come from friends, family and co-workers. If you have unique needs for example, first time home buyer, vacation home buyer, real estate investment property buyer, be sure find an find an agent who specializes in and has recently closed sales specific to the needs you have and someone who will put your needs above anyone elses. If the agent is an ABR (Accredited Buyer Representative) he or she will have had extensive training to take care of buyers. If someone you know has had a positive buying or selling experience with a real estate professional, you definitely want that agent's name.
2. Check out an agent's background.
A good agent will be willing to provide you with his or her resume and a list of references you can contact. Find out how long the agent has been a REALTORs® and what advanced designations he or she has earned. An agent who has earned the CRS (Certified Residential Specialist) designation would be a great choice as only 4% of the top REALTORs® achieve this designation which involves several two day seminars attended and obtaining a passing grade on the test, along with a firm background of having successfully closed 75 transactions over a period of time. Find out what their success rate is as well as the firm they represent and how long the firm has been in business. Also call the local Board of REALTORs® to see if there have been any problems or complaints registered on this agent, then call me.
3. Continue to review your working relationship.
Once you have selected an agent, make sure you continue to receive the level of service you want and deserve. I will constantly strive to meet your real estate needs with first class service.
