HOW TO
PICK A PRO
How do you pick the right person to represent you or
your home? Here are a few do’s and don’ts you should
consider when selecting a real estate agent.
Naturally, check to make certain the agent’s license is
current. Also, find out if the agent is, in fact, a Realtor.
“The National Association of Realtors has a code of
ethics that will knock your socks off, and they are very
strict in dealing with people who don’t abide by them,”
said Donald R. Brenner, the late professor emeritus at
American University and a specialist in housing issues.
Also, only Realtors have access to Multiple Listing
Services (MLS) through which members share listings
and have access to many more properties than nonmembers.
In addition, during your search you should:
ASK AROUND. Talk to people you trust for recommendations,
particularly those who’ve had recent
experience buying or selling a home.
LOOK ONLINE. Some websites, such as Zillow,
have agent reviews. Of course, anyone can post anything
these days, so don’t rely strictly on online commentaries.
FIND A SPECIALIST. Look for someone with
experience in your price range or your geographic
area. Many pros advertise their areas of expertise.
CONDUCT INTERVIEWS. What is the agent’s
specific marketing plan for your home? Is real estate
the agent’s full-time profession? How many homes has
the agent listed and sold this year?
CHECK REFERENCES. Get the names of the
agent’s past clients and give them a call. Would they
use the agent again?
AVOID “DUAL AGENCIES.” These are agencies
that represent both the buyer and the seller. Your goal is
to find someone who is in your corner exclusively.
To find a Realtor, or for more information about Realtors
and Orlando-area real estate, visit the Orlando Regional
Realtor Association (ORRA) at orlrealtor.com.
/orlrealtor.com