Buying or selling real estate in Las Vegas can be challenging, especially if you are new to the city or interested in investment property rather than a home. That is how an agent can make all the difference; work with the right one, and your real estate deal can be stress-free and successful. Not sure how to find a real estate agent who has your best interests in mind? These five smart tips explain what to look for in an agent who can help with your property sale or purchase.
1. Research Agents
Start by gathering names of agents, either from friends and family who have had positive experiences or from trusted websites. Open houses provide another opportunity to meet an agent and get a sense of his or her personality and customer service. Hopefully, you can narrow down your choices to three or five agents whom you would like to interview.
2. Check Backgrounds
Once you have a shortlist of potential agents, it is time to dig a little deeper. Determine if they specialize in an area of real estate; for example, if you are looking for a luxury condo, you want someone who knows the particulars of the high-rise or condo market. Find out how long they have been in the field, if they are local, and what their closing rate looks like. Someone knowledgeable in the Las Vegas market with a proven track record should have the level of experience you want.
3. Conduct Interviews
Agents want to earn your business, so approach that relationship as you would any other business venture by interviewing your candidates. Your goal is to ensure that your real estate agent is on your side at every step of the process, and agents should be comfortable answering your questions and providing references. Follow-up with those references, asking about their experience with each agent as well as any concerns or compliments. Pay attention to communication style and response time, as these factors can indicate an agent’s availability and level of customer service.
4. Review Contracts
Reputable real estate agents should be happy to provide you with samples to see what a typical contract looks like. Look at the length of the contract; are you locked in for six months, or is the term shorter, which may reflect their record with closings? Ask about commissions as well to see if there is room for negotiation. Agents understand that home buyers and sellers want value for their hard-earned dollar.
5. Trust Instincts
Listen to your gut. Is this agent someone you can work with? Are you comfortable talking and sharing with this individual? If you do not feel a connection with a real estate agent, that relationship may improve with time. Then again, it may not. Meet with a few other brokers or agents to get a sense of the right fit before you sign a contract.
At EXP Realty, we have a team of knowledgeable agents who can help you navigate the luxury Las Vegas market. Contact us to learn more about us and our services, and we will do our best to answer any questions you have.
