So, you’ve made the decision to buy a house. Congratulations!
Purchasing a home is definitely exciting, but buyer be warned: it can also be pretty darn nerve wracking. There’s a lot that goes into buying a house, which is why working with a top-notch realtor is key. A good realtor can help make a complicated process go smoothly and turn a daunting experience into an excellent one.
So what should you look for in a real estate agent? Check out this list, then find a realtor that checks all the boxes!
Buying a House? Here’s What to Expect From Your Realtor
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Frequent Communication
When buying a home, you should expect your realtor to not only be honest and provide full disclosure, but also keep you informed of details, changes, issues, and overall status of things every step of the way. It’s important that your realtor is available and returns your calls and emails in a timely manner to keep you updated about what’s going on. Keeping everyone on the same page helps to keep the process moving along smoothly.
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Excellent Market Knowledge
Your realtor should know the local market of the area in which you are looking for a home, and most importantly, the value of houses located there. Strong market knowledge ensures you make an accurate offer and get a fair price. It also ensures that you are following any local rules, requirements, and regulations there may be for buying a home in that specific area. This is important in order to avoid any glitches that can bring your home buying process to a grinding halt.
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Quality References and Connections
A good real estate agent will have good reviews, and will come highly recommended by friends, family, and past clients. You should also look for a realtor with a good reputation and good connections, since having a strong network allows realtors to find new properties that fit your wishes and needs fast — sometimes before they’re even listed! Being well-connected with other industry pros like lenders, inspectors, and title companies can also mean a smoother, quicker home-buying experience.
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Strong Negotiation Skills
Your realtor is there to help you get the best possible price for the property you want, which means you should expect an agent to be an excellent negotiator! If there are issues uncovered by the inspection, for instance, your realtor should be able to negotiate a lower price or have the repairs made prior to your purchase. In other words, your real estate agent should also be your advocate.
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Professionalism
It should go without saying that you should expect your real estate agent to be courteous and professional. A realtor should always respect your time, come to appointments prepared, answer your questions appropriately, and listen carefully to your wants, needs, and concerns. If your realtor doesn’t behave in a professional manner, it’s time to find a new realtor!
Find a West Michigan Realtor Who Checks All the Boxes
Buying a house can involve a lot of confusion and frustration, so it helps to have someone on your side who understands the process, the rules, the paperwork, and all the other stuff that can complicate and slow down your home buying experience. If you’re ready to buy a new home in the Grand Haven area, the BlueWest team is here to help!
Our knowledgeable and experienced realtors know this market well, and know what it takes to find a home you’ll love, at a price you’ll love! We don’t just check off all the boxes of what to expect from realtors — we work every day to exceed those expectations. Get in touch with BlueWest today to get started on becoming a happy West Michigan home owner, and expect to enjoy the best home buying experience around!
