My recommendation to you would be to go here first, http://www.rebac.net/Home.aspx

I belong to the REBAC(Real Estate BUYER'S AGENT Council & it is important for you to get someone to assist you with YOUR best interests in mind with a purchase. Have a great weekend! JustGeri

Sat May 10 2008, 13:33

Martin, a good way to screen a REALTOR is to meet with them. You will get a good feel for the person that way. Remember, all Agents want to get paid just like you get paid when you work. The question is, does the Agent put getting a paycheck ahead of you accomplishing your goals? I tell my prospective Clients that I like getting paid for what I do but I like it even more when my Clients call me back later when they are ready to sell or refer me to their family and friends. To me, that is the real test. And don't forget, all transactions are unique unto themself. A good fit is someone you can trust to go for the ride with you.

Fri May 9 2008, 14:21

Top Notch Realtors that actively work as Buyer Agent understand that their most important job is listening to their client and helping them determine what their possibilities are. One four-pronged approach to defining the tasks involved might be to ask questions regqarding:
a. PROBLEM SOLVING ... what problem solving skills does the agent demonstrate? Most buyers ha a problem -- they want to find a home. What skills will the agent bring to the table to help you do that?
b. LEADERSHIP... good Buyer's Agents understqand that a big part of their job is to help lead their client through the complicated process of finding, securing, and purchasing a home. What leadership skills does the agents demonstrate to you?
c. ADVOCACY ... you need to hire an agent that will advocate for you. As a Buyer's Agent, this means to me: "You ineterst (my Buyer client) above all others including mine, always.
d. NEGOTIATION ... the art of negotiation on behalf of buyers requires a gret dela of skill and talent. What negotiation skills does the agent you are considering demonstrate. What is their track record. I always remind by buyer clients that their objective is to Buy a Home, and hopefully the perfect home for them. My job is to help in any way that I can. this means focusing on the object, addressing the concerns of my buyers, educating them every step of the way, and advising on offer strategies to successfully accomplish their goal of buying their dream home.

Successful Buyer Agents understand these principles. When you interview Realtors, be sure to address these issues. it should help you in determining who will best meet your needs. good luck in your home search, and best regards!

Mon Apr 21 2008, 15:22

Always go with a full time experienced Realtor. One who knows the immediate area and the local market. But you must feel comfortable with the Realtor enough to be able to express how you feel about each house and a Realtor that listens to your thoughts, likes and dislikes.

Fri Apr 11 2008, 18:15

You are looking for a negotiater. Someone that knows homes and also the area that you want to be in. They do need some of the same skill set that a selling agent needs but, they have to have a strong sense of service. They spend alot more time with you then a listing agent does. So definitely someone you are comfortable being around.

Larry Story
Coldwell Banker Triad

Tue Apr 8 2008, 05:52

Alot of the same skill levels would be necessary, There are still agents that I know that are more comfortable working on the Listing-side rather than Buyers.

Most likely you will want a Realtor that is knowledgeable about working with Buyer Agency. They should be willing and able to do the research to provide you with the important information you need to make an informed decision about price, location, etc. Strong negotiation skills.
Talking to a person will give you a feeling as to whether you and they would be "compatible". I'm sure you will be successful in finding a great fit.

Good Luck in your Home Search

Tue Apr 8 2008, 05:43