Choosing the Right Agent
Buying or selling a home is one of the most complex transactions you may ever undertake. Your first step involves deciding how you will approach your home search or sale. Who will you work with throughout this process, and how will you work with them?
As A Buyer
Most buyers today choose to have a RE/MAX agent represent their interests in a real estate transaction. This is also known as Agency Representation (or fiduciary representation), which simply means that the agent you hire is legally bound to represent your interests. This involves the highest standard of care and extreme loyalty to you, the “client”, and allows them to provide the full range of services that buyers need and deserve. Tips to help you select the right real estate professional:
- Ensure the person you select is someone you trust, who listens and respects your views and is someone you feel comfortable working with.
- Make sure they are knowledgeable and know the current real estate market conditions.
- Don’t be afraid to ask them about their experience and past results.
- Choose someone with a good reputation. At RE/MAX, client and agent referrals account for 70% of business. Talk to friends, family and colleagues.
- RE/MAX agents that carry the ARB® designation (Accredited Buyer Representative) are skilled in understanding and responding to the specific needs of buyers. Consider looking for an agent with an ARB® designation before you look for a home and you’ll be served, not sold.
Top 10 House Hunting Tips
When looking for a place to call home, it’s easy to get sidetracked by thinking with your heart rather than your head. Although it takes Jess than seven seconds to make a first impression, a quick decision could lead to an unavoidable case of buyer’s remorse. In order to avoid this, we have listed a checklist for the top ten house hunting tips you need to know before you attend a viewing.
1. Location: There are many things that can be changed, upgraded, or improved after you have purchased a home, but the location isn’t one of them. You need to think about the proximity to work, schools, and other attractions you frequently visit and also research any new developments or upcoming changes to the area in the future.
2. Smells: While air fresheners and open windows can clear out certain scents, it’s important to pay attention in order to sniff out other potential issues. For example, if you notice a damp smell, it could mean the home has poor ventilation or issues with mold.
3. Even Floors: Noticing a slanted floor is one of the major hints that there could be a large structural issue with the home. If you do notice something, you can ask your Agent to inquire with the owners or make note of it for the home inspection if you decide to go that far in the purchase process.
4. Lighting: Natural lighting is something that is often overlooked in your house hunt, especially if you are viewing a home at night, or in the middle of winter. Think about how important natural lighting is to you, and plan your viewing times around when the lighting will be optimal.
5. Shape & Size of Rooms: It is important to take a good look at the layout to make sure not only you but also your furniture can fit comfortably in the space.
6. Parking: Is there enough space for everyone in your household to park or will this become an added expense? Additionally, if there is parking available, will your vehicle fit?
7. Laundry: If there is laundry in the home, you need to make sure it is in an accessible location. If there is no laundry, is it in a convenient location you can easily get to with or without a car?
8. Storage Space: Depending on how creative you can get with your storage, you will want to make sure that there is enough room to store your belongings without things becoming cluttered or unlivable.
9. It looks perfect, but are you missing something? Professional staging can sometimes fool buyers into thinking a property is perfect while diverting their eyes away from potential issues. Don’t let the professional decor and scent of fresh baked cookies take your attention away from the things that matter.
10. Assess the Kitchen and Bathrooms: The kitchen and bathroom are two of the most costly rooms in a home. Make sure you pay special attention to these rooms to avoid getting stuck with unwanted repairs or updates after purchasing the home.