Mortgage Information from HUD
Mortgage Planning Help
Home Buyer's Guide Step 2
Find a Real Estate Agent
The right real estate agent can simplify the entire process of buying a house, especially for first-time home buyers. If you’re not sure what to look for in a real estate agent, some simple guidelines can help.
A Good Real Estate Agent is a Home Buyer's Advantage
- First-time home buyers can gain a guide through the complex legal and financial processes of buying a home.
- A good, experienced realtor can save time by helping you search for houses that fit your budget and needs.
- With access to the Multi-List Service (MLS), a buyer’s agent can notify you of houses for sale before they are widely advertised.
- An ethical realtor can act as your advocate in the home buying process by providing information and advice that helps you make smart decisions on how to spend your home investment.
Start Your Real Estate Agent Search with Interviews
Your real estate agent should serve as your partner in the home buying process. Take time to interview real estate agents to see if they are the right fit for you. Your questions should provide answers to:
- Years of experience as a buyer’s or seller’s agent
- Commitment to the job—full-time, or part-time?
- Their understanding of the local real estate market and the communities and types of houses that interest you
- The number of home sale transactions they’ve negotiated
- The right kinds of references
- Their agreement contract details, commission structure and the level of service you can expect
The answers to these questions should be an important factor in choosing your real estate agent.
Download our FREE Best Home Buyer’s Guide Workbook for an interview guide and straight facts on what to look for in a real estate agent. You’ll have a handy place to log your interview results as you meet with real estate agents.
NEXT STEP: Set A Budget with Mortgage Pre-Approval
- Don’t let your dream house slip away!
- Learn why pre-qualification can help you save time and money.
