Choosing an Agent / Broker

When you are buying or selling a condominium, most likely, you will hire a real estate agent.  This is an important decision, so choose carefully.

• Talk with recent clients.

• Look up the licensing.

• Research how long the agent has been in business.

• Look at their current listings.

• Ask about other houses for sale nearby.

​

The title of the professional real estate individual you seek may be called different things based on the state you like in.  Also, the difference between a real estate "agent/broker" and a realtor is different.  A realtor means the individual is a member of the Realtors Association, a professional association, and the individual agrees to certain professional standards.  That does not, however, mean a real estate person does not just know by their name that they have agreed to such standards.  Some agencies require their real estate sales personnel to become members to be part of that firm.  Hopefully I have captured this correctly, if not I am sure I will be told.

​

What is an Agent vs Realtor vs Broker - Differences and Definitions

​

The real estate profession is regulated by the state you live in; the individuals must have a certain amount of training, take a test, and continue their education on an ongoing basis.  Their main job is to assist you in buying or selling and be forthright and ethical.  Even so, remember they are there to get a sale.  They are not there to offer you legal advice, and like any professional, some are great, some are good, and some, well, not so good.

​

DO NOT JUST GO TO A FRIEND OR CHURCH MEMBER - this is your money and time you are discussing.  Ask questions, and choose carefully.

​

Selecting the Your Agent/Broker

​

• Ask agents to list what they've listed and sold in the past year, with contact information.

• Reach out to people the agent has worked with and ask if anyone will be "particularly pleased or disappointed.  

• If buying, ask what experience they have had in buying and selling a condominium.   

• With past clients, ask what the asking price was and the sales price.  

• Ask if the previous properties were similar to yours in price, location, and other salient features, 

• How long were the homes on the market?

• Find someone who specializes in exactly what you're selling

​

Let's review that last question;  "Find someone who specializes in exactly what you're selling". If you are looking for a condo, find an agent that has condo experience.  Lots, if they do not thank them and move on.

Look up the licensing.

​

Washington State regulates real estate sales personnel, like most states, and they likely have information on the individual so you can find out some facts.  If you live in Washington State or are buying a condo in the State, you may review the state's regulatory information to find out if a prospective agent is licensed and if there have been any disciplinary actions or complaints. If you are buying or selling in another state, use the internet and find out the information.  It is worth the time.  

Research how long the agent has been in business

The state licensing authority information will offer how long an agent has been selling real estate. Or, you can ask the agent directly.

"If they haven't been in business for a reasonable amount of time, they're learning, which may not be good for you.  Ensure your agent/broker knows the area well and has a reasonable amount of time in the business - how many condos have they sold?

Ultimately, what you're looking for is someone actively engaged in a particular area and price range, says NAR's Phipps. You'll want an agent to demonstrate knowledge of the area and homes in your range and show "what kind of market presence they have," he says.

Review current listings

Check out an agent's listings online, places to look include the agency's website or any Multile Listing Service, which offer a searchable online database of properties.

Most buyers start their search on the internet, and you want an agent who uses that tool effectively. A key thing is an attractive presentation on the web.

Look at how closely the agent's listings mirror the property you want to buy or sell. Are they in the same area? The price range is similar? And does the agent have enough listings to indicate a healthy business but not so many that you'd just be a number?

Ask about other houses for sale nearby.

A good agent should know about other available area properties off the top of their head.  Mention a house in your area that's sold recently or is for sale. If the agent knows the property and can give you a few details, that means he or she knows your area, he says. "You want someone like that who's on top of the market."

The bottom line

​

Select a local agent immediately if you are buying or selling, you want someone that knows the area, pricing and reputation of the condo as they will know the market.  Again, pick someone who is experienced in buying and selling condos.  The person selling the property is paying a fee in which the agents/brokers all share, the seller and the buyer. Once you have selected your agent, stick with them unless there is real cause to end the relationship.

​