Searching for a new home is an exciting journey. Touring homes, imagining your life in each one, and planning for the future can be thrilling. However, the success of your home search depends heavily on the real estate agent you choose. The right agent will make the process smooth and rewarding, while the wrong one can turn it into a frustrating experience.
So, how do you find a realtor who truly has your best interests at heart? We’ve got the answers.
Get Recommendations
One of the easiest ways to find a trustworthy realtor is by asking people you know. Friends, family, neighbors, and coworkers can provide firsthand recommendations based on their experiences.
For an even broader search, check out community Facebook pages or local forums. Many people use these platforms to share referrals and experiences, so be prepared for a flood of responses.
Research Online Reviews and Testimonials
Once you have a few potential realtors in mind, do some research. Don’t base your decision on a single recommendation. Make sure to look up client reviews to get a fuller picture.
Most real estate agents have testimonials on their websites and social media pages. Read reviews carefully, paying attention to comments on communication, professionalism, efficiency, and pricing. Also, focus on reviews from home buyers rather than sellers, as the two experiences can be quite different.
Check Their Licensing and Credentials
Before working with any real estate agent, confirm they are properly licensed. In Kansas City, you can verify their credentials through the Kansas Real Estate Commission (KREC) or the Missouri Real Estate Commission (MREC), depending on which side of the city you’re moving to.
A licensed realtor ensures that you’re working with a professional who follows industry regulations and ethical standards.
Test Their Knowledge of Local Market Trends
Kansas City’s housing market can fluctuate based on interest rates, demand, and seasonal trends. A knowledgeable realtor should be well-versed in:
- Current home prices in your preferred neighborhoods
- Market demand (Is it a buyer’s or seller’s market?)
- Best times to buy or sell in the area
During your initial conversations, ask your prospective agent about local market conditions to gauge their expertise.
Meet and Build Rapport
Experience matters, but so does personality. You’ll be working closely with your realtor, so it’s essential to choose someone you connect with. A great realtor should be:
- Personable and easy to talk to
- Passionate about helping you
- Patient and willing to listen to your needs
If a realtor seems disinterested or more focused on their commission than your goals, they’re not the right fit.
Compare Pricing and Services
Real estate agents charge different rates, but price shouldn’t be the only deciding factor. A higher-priced agent may offer additional services, such as:
- Access to exclusive property listings
- Priority home tours
- Personalized assistance throughout the process
Look beyond the price tag to determine the value of their services.
Ensure Availability
A good realtor is available when you need them. If an agent is juggling too many clients or has another job, they might not be able to give you the attention you deserve.
Ask about their availability and response times. You don’t want to miss out on a great home because your agent was too busy to act quickly.
Prioritize Strong Communication
Your agent should be easy to reach and responsive. Make sure they communicate through methods that work for you—whether it’s phone, text, or email.
- Urgent matters (like making an offer) should be handled via call or text.
- Non-urgent inquiries (like requesting more listings) can be sent via email.
A realtor who values clear and timely communication can make a huge difference in your experience.
Understand Their Negotiation Skills
Negotiation is a crucial part of buying a home. A skilled realtor will:
- Advocate for a fair price on your behalf
- Handle multiple-offer situations effectively
- Negotiate favorable terms on your purchase agreement
Ask potential agents about their approach to negotiations and past successes to ensure they have strong bargaining skills.
Choose a Good Listener
Your realtor should prioritize your needs—not just push you into the first available home. They should carefully consider:
- Your budget
- Desired location
- Number of bedrooms/bathrooms
- Specific home features you need
If they keep showing you homes that don’t fit your criteria, they might not be the right match.
Look for Valuable Industry Connections
A well-connected real estate agent can help in more ways than just buying a home. Many have relationships with:
- Moving companies
- Contractors
- Landscapers
- Home inspectors
- Cleaning services
Ask your realtor if they can provide referrals—some may even offer exclusive discounts through their network.
See How They Handle Tough Situations
Real estate transactions can be unpredictable. A great agent should be able to navigate challenges such as:
- Low appraisals
- Bidding wars
- Inspection issues
- Contingency negotiations
Ask prospective agents about tough situations they’ve handled and how they resolved them.
Check Their Social Media Presence
A strong social media presence can indicate a proactive realtor who stays engaged with their clients and the market. Check their profiles to see how active they are in sharing new listings, market insights, and real estate advice.
Request a Sample Contract
Before committing, ask for a sample contract to review their:
- Commission rates
- Terms of Agreement
- Any hidden fees
This will help you avoid surprises later.
Find an Open and Honest Agent
A trustworthy agent will be upfront about potential issues with a home, the real estate market, and fair pricing. Some agents downplay concerns just to make a sale—avoid them.
A good agent will:
- Tell you if a home is overpriced
- Advise you on potential hidden issues
- Help you ask the right questions during inspections
Find a Realtor with Local Expertise
If you’re new to Kansas City, a realtor with deep local knowledge is invaluable. They can guide you toward:
- The safest neighborhoods
- The best school districts
- Areas with good resale value
Hometown experience can make all the difference when choosing the right location for your future home.
Ready to Make Your Move?
Finding the right realtor can make all the difference in your home-buying experience. Choose someone who listens to your needs, communicates well, and has the expertise to guide you.
And when it’s time to move, Moving Proz is here to help. Whether you’re moving across town or the country, we provide professional moving services to make your transition seamless. Contact us today for a free quote!