What to Look For When Choosing a Realtor to Buy & Sell a Home

The Ann + Melinda Group

What to Look For When Choosing a Realtor to Buy & Sell a Home
 
Located just over 20 miles from Manhattan, Glen Rock, NJ, is enticing for those seeking a convenient suburban lifestyle with easy access to the city. Glen Rock’s top-tier school system, gorgeous parks, shopping district, and historical sights make this Bergen County borough an excellent choice for individuals and families alike who are looking for a peaceful place to call home.

If you’re hoping to buy or sell Glen Rock real estate this year, you can simplify and streamline your journey with the guidance of an expert real estate team. Before you step into the market, use this guide as your reference for everything to look for when you hire a Glen Rock Realtor®.

Local market knowledge

If you’re hoping to sell for top-dollar offers or achieve your dream home, the Realtor® you partner up with should have a thorough understanding of the local market. You want them to be your go-to resource for any questions or concerns you might have along the way. Can they provide you with up-to-date home prices in your preferred neighborhood? Do they understand how the market ebbs and flows from season to season?

An expert Realtor® will also be aware of potential areas of growth, upcoming developments, and neighborhood-specific amenities that could play a role in home values. Their expertise will ensure you receive accurate, current information that empowers you to make confident decisions as you buy or sell a home in Glen Rock real estate.

Experience and expertise

Experience and expertise are paramount when selecting a Realtor®, so keep your eyes out for someone with a proven track record of successful deals in the area. An experienced Realtor® will have established relationships with other real estate professionals, giving you the best chance of connecting with local buyers or discovering top properties for sale.

If you’re selling, a highly experienced Realtor® will know how to price a home strategically, market it effectively, and help you negotiate the right terms during closing. If you’re buying, they’ll be able to steer you toward a neighborhood that suits your needs, help you submit a competitive offer, and walk you through each step of the closing process.

Strong communication skills

The last thing you want when buying or selling a home is a Realtor® who isn’t responsive to your questions or concerns. If your agent is unresponsive to your queries, this can delay your progress and lead to setbacks. Always look for a Realtor® who is an effective communicator.

Throughout the home buying or selling process, clear and timely communication ensures that everyone remains on the same page. A skilled professional will actively listen to your needs and concerns, provide regular progress updates, and promptly address any questions or issues that may arise.

If you’re not sure how to gauge an agent’s communication skills before hiring them, take notice of how quickly they respond to your initial inquiry. Did they get back to you within 24 hours, or are you still waiting for a reply the following week? Also, don’t be afraid to interview your Realtor® and ask them about their communication style. What’s their communication policy, and how often are they in contact? By choosing a Glen Rock Realtor® with solid communication skills, you’ll have greater peace of mind and feel supported every step of the way.

Client references and testimonials

A reputable Realtor® will also have a track record of satisfied clients who can attest to their professionalism, expertise, and ability to deliver results. Check online for reviews and testimonials to gain insights into past clients' experiences. Additionally, don't hesitate to ask the Realtor® for references from previous clients whom you can contact directly. Speaking with these references will provide firsthand information about the Realtor®'s performance, communication habits, negotiation skills, and the overall satisfaction levels of their clients’ experience. In doing so, you can gain insight into what it’ll be like to work with your Realtor® before you hire them.

An extensive professional network and resources

As mentioned earlier, a well-established Realtor® should have a strong network of contacts in the industry, including mortgage lenders, home inspectors, appraisers, contractors, and other professionals who play a crucial role in the home buying or selling process. This network is a true game-changer, as it allows individuals to connect with the professionals they need quickly and efficiently. Instead of browsing for the right mortgage lenders or trying to find an affordable contractor for renovations, buyers and sellers are put in touch with trusted service providers.

Fees and contracts when selling

Finally, when selecting a Glen Rock Realtor® to sell your home, you’ll want to inquire about their fees and contract requirements. Agents typically work on a commission basis in which they receive a percentage of the final sale price, which the seller generally pays. Before entering into any agreement, make sure you clearly understand what fees you can expect, including any additional costs or services they provide. Discuss and negotiate the terms of your contract, including its duration. A reputable Realtor® will be transparent about their fees, willing to explain the details, and provide a written contract that outlines the terms and conditions of the working relationship. If a Realtor® seems hesitant to do so, move on to the next one on your list.

Leave your real estate journey to the Glen Rock experts

To take the mystery out of finding an agent, partner up with a professional team who has the skills and experience backing their stellar reputation. The REALTORS® at The Ann + Melinda Group are trusted Glen Rock real estate experts with over 35 years of combined experience, 400 closed transactions, and numerous accolades showcasing their market knowledge, customer dedication, and exceptional results. Contact The Ann + Melinda Group today to learn more.

*Header photo courtesy of The Ann + Melinda Group




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