Should You Check Realtor Reviews Before Choosing One?
Should You Check Realtor Reviews Before Choosing One?
Some REALTORS are Great & Some are…well, Not So Great ~ How to Choose the Right Realtor for You!
Are you in the market for a new home? One of the most important decisions you will make is choosing the right real estate agent. But with so many agents to choose from, how do you know which one is right for you, it can be overwhelming trying to find the perfect fit.? In this article, we will provide you with some tips and advice on how to choose the right Realtor.
Why You Should Check Google & Other Client Reviews
One of the best ways to get a sense of how an agent works is by reading online reviews. Google Reviews are a great place to start. By reading these reviews, you can get a sense of how satisfied other clients have been with the agent's services.
To check Google Reviews for a real estate agent, simply search for the agent's name in Google, followed by the word "reviews". This will bring up a list of reviews left by previous clients. Pay attention to the overall rating and the content of the reviews. Look for comments about the agent's responsiveness, professionalism, and communication skills.
There are also additional real estate review sites you can consult such as:
- Realtor.ca (Find a Realtor, Search their Name, Here you will see their reviews on multiple sites)
- RankMyAgent.com
- Rate-My-Agent.com
Reading reviews is a great way to get a sense of how a Realtor operates and what their clients think of them. Look for Realtors with high ratings and lots of positive reviews. Don't be too deterred by a few negative reviews, but do pay attention to how the Realtor responds to negative feedback. Do they take the time to address the issue and make things right? This is a good sign that they care about their clients and are committed to providing excellent service.
The Problem With Years of Experience
Many Realtors advertise their years of experience in the business, convincing potential clients that they are the best choice. However, the problem with this approach is that some Realtors work part-time or only as a side business. Just because someone has been in the business for 15-20+ years doesn't necessarily mean they have the experience or dedication you're looking for.
Why Experience Matters More Than Years in Business
Instead of focusing on years of experience, it's important to look at a Realtor's track record. You may find a Realtor who has only been in the business for two years but has already done more business than someone who has been doing it for over 20 years. This indicates that the newer agent has more experience, success and is more dedicated to the job.
The Importance of Full-Time Dedication
When it comes to choosing a Realtor, you want someone who does this job full-time and puts their clients' needs first. Whether they've been in the business for two years or 20, the most important thing is that they are dedicated to their work and committed to providing excellent service.
The Importance of Chemistry!
Ultimately, the best way to know if you have found the right Realtor is to meet with them and see if you click. Just like picking your wedding photographer, you want to make sure you get along with your Realtor and have chemistry. This is a relationship-based business, and you want to work with someone you feel you can be honest and open with. Take the time to interview a few agents after you go through their reviews, and see who you click with. I ALWAYS recommend those I meet with to interview at least two other agents to see who the “JIVE” with.
The Importance of Availability
You also want someone who is available on short notice, as inventory is currently low, and you should try to view any home that piques your interest right away -whether they have an offer presentation date or not! Often times the early bird gets the worm!
Multiple Offer Plan
A Realtor with a multiple offer plan is also important. When inventory is low, and a good house goes on the market, there could be multiple offers. A good agent will have a plan on how to make your offer stand out in a crowded field.
Conclusion
When it comes to buying or selling a home, choosing the right Realtor can make all the difference. By checking their reviews, you can get a sense of their track record and how they operate. It's also important to choose a Realtor who is dedicated to their work, puts their clients' needs first, and with whom you have chemistry. Don't rush the process, take the time to interview a few agents after you go through their reviews, and find the one that is the best fit for you.