finding the right home

Time to Choose a Real Estate Agent

Select a qualified real estate agent to help you find a home. To locate one, ask family members and friends to give you the names of realtors they've worked with and whom they trust. Also, check local listings for realtors who represent properties like the one you hope to buy. Based on this research, interview at least three candidates. In choosing a realtor, which of these practices should you avoid?

1. Find someone who is both a buyer's and a seller's agent.

2. Ask how long each candidate has been a licensed real estate agent.

3. Ask for references and find out which ones offer a buyer's guarantee.

If you guessed "A", you're right. Some realtors will say they represent both buyers and sellers, but it's impossible to fairly and equally represent both. You want an agent who answers only to you.