Top 4 Things To Look Into Before Hiring A Realtor

Hiring a realtor can make house hunting less painful and more enjoyable. Starting the home buying process is often very exciting. Unfortunately, it can also be extremely overwhelming. For this reason, it’s essential to understand what you’re doing before you embark on this long process. Here are some tips to get you started in the right direction to buy the right home.

1. Study the real estate market in the city where you want to invest

The mortgage you’re pre-approved for will dictate the price range of the homes you should look for. But if you’re also selling, you’ll need to know the market for homes similar to yours in your area.

Keep in mind that while you can search real estate listings online and in print, you will only know the asking prices. A real estate agent will tell you how long the homes have been on the market, any price reductions, and, most importantly, closing prices.

While it’s important to research the market, don’t fall in love with a property yet. Chances are, the property won’t be around by the time you’re ready to buy, especially if you have to sell your home first. Offers to buy- or, as they say in the real estate industry, “yes, but…” are less likely to be accepted by a seller than an offer whose finances are in order.

2. The clean-up

When it comes to selling your home, a clean bathroom goes further than you think. A tidy house shows pride of ownership and suggests that the place has been maintained and cared for. For example, the appearance of your entryway is just as important as any other part of the interior. 

Make sure your mailbox, door, doormat, and woodwork are spotless. Spotless windows let in more light and allow people to enjoy the view. Shades and light fixtures are havens for dust and bugs, and even if you don’t notice them in your daily routine, investigating homebuyers may be put off by your poor maintenance. 

Consider replacing the furnace filter to improve the airflow in your home and the quality of the air you breathe. Finally, the bathroom should be spotless. In addition to the obvious areas, such as toilets, tubs, and tiles, an old rule of bathroom etiquette becomes paramount: Put the toilet seat down!

3. Potential Screening Agents

Don’t just hire the first agent in your Google search. Take the time to shop around and find an agent that meets your needs. You can start by asking for referrals from people who have recently moved, and there are several online resources for ranking and rating real estate agents. 

You’ll also want to look for an agent who is familiar with selling homes in your area, as they’ll be experts at setting an appropriate price for your home. In addition, an agent with extensive real estate experience will have a large network of contacts to help you market your home and find a new one. Keep in mind that these agents will take up to 7% of the closing price of your home, so make sure you hire someone willing to work hard.

4. Repair, replacement, and refinishing

Many longtime homeowners get used to renovation repairs and outdated or deteriorated features. For example, be sure to patch and paint the walls. Repainting in neutral colors will help people imagine themselves in your space (think blank canvas), and an intact wall will reinforce the maintenance of your home. 

Also, assess your curb appeal. Is your lawn mowed and free of weeds? The front of your home is the real first impression for most house hunters, so make sure your exterior is top-notch if you have an older home or are concerned about hidden surprises.

You may want to have a pre-sale home inspection done so you can tackle repairs before buyers rescind their offers. At the very least, you’ll have an estimate of the cost of repairs, so potential buyers know what they’re getting into.

Looking for help?

If you want to buy a home, consider Ideal Real Estate. It’s a Florida-based real estate company with a portfolio that spans all of Brevard County. They understand that buying or selling a home is one of the most important decisions in a person’s life, and that’s why they are committed to helping every client through every step of the selling process. Contact them for more details.