Looking for a real estate agent?

Idaho real estate is a growing market with lots of real estate agents.

Choosing the perfect real estate agent can be hard.

Imagine you're in a supermarket by a large barrel of apples with a sign that says Pick One - 6 Cents. Some of the apples are sweet, others are sour, a few are only for cooking and the rest look too green and not quite ready for eating. You think for a second and then reach in and grab the first one that looks good - only to find that it wasn't exactly what you expected.
For an apple, it may not matter. But that kind of decision making often happens when people choose a real estate agent to help them buy a home. On the surface, all real estate agents seem alike. They all charge about the same fee, 6% of the sales price, and most agencies offer similar services. But, in reality, differences can be huge. Consumers who don’t do their homework can wind up getting bad advice that could cost thousands.

INTERVIEWING REALTORS

Once you've narrowed down the list of Realtors, make an appointment to meet with the agent in their office. Before you start talking about houses, find out as much as you can about the agent. You should ask:

How long have they been licensed as an agent?
An inexperienced agents may be fine for uncomplicated purchases like condos or townhouses. But for the most part, you want to look for somebody who has at least 5 years of experience. Getting licensed is relatively easy. Staying with the business for at least five years isn't and shows a strong commitment to the profession.

Is the agent part-time or full-time?
While all agents have to start somewhere, working with a part-time agent may not be in your best interests. Part time agents have other commitments that can get in the way of giving you full-time attention. In addition, agents that are part time may simply not be successful enough to have developed business adequate to support a full time commitment.

What awards has the agent won?
Most full time realtors worth their salts will have made "million dollar club" at the least.

How accessible is the agent?
Do they maintain office hours? Can you call them at home? By beeper? Buying real estate can be a traumatic experience. With lots of surprises along the way, you'll want an agent that's easily accessible if you need to reach them.

Take note if the agent is good listener.
Do they cut you off before you've finished a sentence? There's nothing worse than wasting time looking at houses you have no interest in because the agent has not listened carefully to your needs.