Homebuying

5 Things You’ll Want In Your Realtor If You’re Buying A Home For The First Time

Delving into the home buying process for the first time can be overwhelming, especially at the beginning and before you find the perfect realtor for you. Our goal is to make the process as easy as possible and that starts with demystifying what actually makes up a good realtor match.

We spoke to Melissa Colabella, Realtor at Sothebys International Realty, and she helped point us in the direction of the questions you should be asking, the red flags you should keep in mind, and what will help you rest easy that you’ve found a realtor who will help you along the way.

Before you dive into the below — take a deep breath and remember that there are as many realtors as there are potential homes for you. You’re a few questions away from the one who will help you navigate everything from pre-approval to a home that is within your reach and your budget.

Here are five things you want to look for in a realtor.

Someone who is all in as a realtor

Melissa shares that while it is true that a good percentage of realtors are burning both ends of the candle with a full time job and their push as a realtor, there are benefits to choosing someone who pursues real estate on a full-time basis. Throughout the process you’ll want someone who is available when you call and who can jump in with an offer to your dream home without hesitation.

Someone who isn’t bashing other realtors

While this may seem pretty matter of fact, it’s actually one of the biggest red flags you should be looking for, notes Melissa. You want your realtor to protect your interests without being rude or disliked in the process. Take note of how they interact with other realtors or what former clients have to say about them.

Someone who knows the ins and outs of the neighborhood

On your first encounter your only piece of homework is to drill your potential realtor with all the basic questions about the community you want to live in, or the process of buying for the first time as a whole. You want someone who not only knows the nitty gritty of the home buying process but who also knows how to explain it all to a first time buyer. As Melissa explains you want someone who is going to be able to help you manage the process as seamlessly as possible — if you’re both learning on the go this may not be possible.

Someone who can you tell you if something does or doesn’t exist

Most first time buyers walk in with high-reaching descriptions of the home of their dreams — it’s your realtor’s responsibility to tell you if any version of that home actually exists. Melissa encourages you to directly ask “does this exist?” If your realtor doesn’t volunteer the information on their own. This will ultimately help you find if this is the right realtor for you.

Someone who listens more than they speak

You know what you need in a future home more than anyone else does, this is no different when it comes to the realtor you choose to work with. While you are depending on them for expert advice on towns and homes, you don’t want them to tell you what you need or want.

If you think you’re ready to meet your agent match, click here to be matched with a realtor in our highly curated Agent Network who is an expert in the town you will call home.