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Best Answer
- SoCal_Engr
- Contributions:5666
Requirements for the ABR designation are detaile at this site. Unfortunately, all it requires is 3-4 days of classes and 5 documented sales. While it shows at least some level of incentive, it is not a guarentee of what you are asking for.
The best way to insure the agent is working for your interests is to use your BS detector while interviewing multiple agents. Also, pay close attention to what questions they are asking about your desired home, how hard they push for your financials (they don't need them, all they need to know is how much you pre-qualified for), and then whether they demonstrate a willingness to work within your budget.
The best way to insure the agent is working for your interests is to use your BS detector while interviewing multiple agents. Also, pay close attention to what questions they are asking about your desired home, how hard they push for your financials (they don't need them, all they need to know is how much you pre-qualified for), and then whether they demonstrate a willingness to work within your budget.
- no name, "nname"
- Contributions:13
Brain storm what you want in a home, research on the internet about the schools, parks, recreation, hobbies that you and your husband like to do. Also contact the local authorities and ask about crime statistics where you currently live and where you want to live. find out what you like. When you choose your agent know that it is his/her job to help you find a home. Just like it is your job to go to work and make money for the home, its an agents job to work as your Realtor and be paid at closing. Many times people get so worried about what an agent might make at closing they become afraid and unfocused about what they want in a home. They fixate on what the agent might make in a paycheck. Know what you want. Ask the agent questions directly. Respect the agent as a professional and understand that the agent makes his/her living doing a good job. If you worry about what they might make and not what you think you want maybe you need to rethink purchasing a home. Come to the interview with questions and a needs list for your home.
- Sharon Lewis, "Sharon Lewis"
- Contributions:3917
This is an old posting, well answered.
- Sherri Bloom, "Sherri Bloom"
- Contributions:60
Hello Terenthia. Don't be afraid to interview several agents to get a feel for how they go about the process and how sincere they are in helping you. It needs to be a good fit for both of you because purchasing a home (especially your first one) can be a big step.
- Betina Foreman, "BetinaForeman"
- Contributions:284
A designation simply proves they sat through the class, it does not speak to their character or honesty. I would interview several Realtors and see who you connect with. Realtors come in all shapes and sizes, its not a one size fits all business. Trust your gut and ask lots of questions to find out who they really are. Anyone can recite a script, but you need to figure out what they are really saying and most important see if they are really listening to you. I wish you success on your purchase.
Sincerely,
Betina
Sincerely,
Betina
- Sharon Lewis, "Sharon Lewis"
- Contributions:3917
Also look for referrals or reviews of that agent and then ask to pick several people from that list.
- Seth Captain, "CaptainSeth"
- Contributions:142
Naturally, you need to utilize what any resident of a free society needs, which is a way to discern reputable character. Referrals are one way. But what if every referral is a co-conspirator. That's why you need to do the following test:
Tell your prospective agent you would like him/her to meet you at the supermarket. You are busy, and it's the best time to talk. When you begin to make your rounds, make sure you clearly state that you are shopping for an important dinner party and you are unsure of the menu. Do not appear too confident.
As you are looking at various produce items, packaged goods, refrigerated section, the agent should be offering plausible suggestions. Now, an agent scared to seem pushy may need help, so you'll want to go to the tomato section and say you are thinking about making a fresh tomato sauce, and need help picking the right tomatoes. If the agent just throws any which one in the basket to expedite the excursion, fire 'em. To be sure about this method, repeat with the apples for the apple pie you are thinking about. And then spend a little time in the cheese section. Any agent who chooses bad cheese should never be trusted.
God speed and good luck.
Tell your prospective agent you would like him/her to meet you at the supermarket. You are busy, and it's the best time to talk. When you begin to make your rounds, make sure you clearly state that you are shopping for an important dinner party and you are unsure of the menu. Do not appear too confident.
As you are looking at various produce items, packaged goods, refrigerated section, the agent should be offering plausible suggestions. Now, an agent scared to seem pushy may need help, so you'll want to go to the tomato section and say you are thinking about making a fresh tomato sauce, and need help picking the right tomatoes. If the agent just throws any which one in the basket to expedite the excursion, fire 'em. To be sure about this method, repeat with the apples for the apple pie you are thinking about. And then spend a little time in the cheese section. Any agent who chooses bad cheese should never be trusted.
God speed and good luck.
- Kelly Marsh, "Kelly Marsh"
- Contributions:164
A good buyer's agent should sit down with you and do a consultation to see what your needs are so you can get to know each other, then a game plan should be set on what you are going to look at. First time home buyers should be explained the process and you should not feel bad if you have to ask the agent the same question more than once, because this is probably the most expensive thing you will ever buy!
Look for an agent who has plenty of referrals on line from different sites. Do a search by that agent's name on the web to see what kind of information comes up so you can further evaluate what their clients think of them. Successful agents always put their client's needs first; because that is what keeps them in business.
Look for an agent who has plenty of referrals on line from different sites. Do a search by that agent's name on the web to see what kind of information comes up so you can further evaluate what their clients think of them. Successful agents always put their client's needs first; because that is what keeps them in business.
- Steve Silva, "ssilva2"
- Contributions:3
A good buyer agent has plenty of people he or she has worked with that you can talk to for reference. If they don't, keep looking! A good agent is looking to stay in business for a long time, not just make a quick commission. That is a lot easier when you have left a trail of happy cutomers who gladly refer you more business via friends and family. Also a good buyer's agent will criticize,as well as praise a home, and it's features. A bad buyer's agent never says anything negative because they don't want to get in the way of you making an offer. Pay attention to that!
- Tere Rice, "Tere Rice"
- Contributions:307
First do not go direct to the list agent and expect them to have your best interest at heart. They are working for the seller first, I repeat you will not get a better deal by going to the sellers agent! He is not going to discount his commission in favor of getting you a better price, thanks to you he just doubled it and has total controll of both sides.
I personally, I am not inspired to sell a house because of a price or a commission. In other words, if I see two equal houses and one pays a 2% and another pays a 3% commission, I will show both and write an offer for the one my Buyer wants! Maybe you should be considering a Realtor* with morals, values and ethics?
A few thousand dollar difference in price is pennies on my side, so offer what you wish but I will run a CMA so you can stay with a comfortable realistic range.
I think buyers are being lulled into the market thinking they can offer below list price, really the prices are HALF OFF from 5 plus years ago! No body wants to pay high, so way the upgrades and updates because other buyers like yourself will be! Be realistic and you will get the home of your dreams at a very reasonable price!
I personally, I am not inspired to sell a house because of a price or a commission. In other words, if I see two equal houses and one pays a 2% and another pays a 3% commission, I will show both and write an offer for the one my Buyer wants! Maybe you should be considering a Realtor* with morals, values and ethics?
A few thousand dollar difference in price is pennies on my side, so offer what you wish but I will run a CMA so you can stay with a comfortable realistic range.
I think buyers are being lulled into the market thinking they can offer below list price, really the prices are HALF OFF from 5 plus years ago! No body wants to pay high, so way the upgrades and updates because other buyers like yourself will be! Be realistic and you will get the home of your dreams at a very reasonable price!
- Matt Anderson, "Dallas Real Estate 1"
- Contributions:3
Your agent should not care about anything other than what you want. Some people are investors and they can be difficult to work with, but if you have a check list of items and a price you have to stay within, then stay firm on your plans and find an agent that has the same thinking you have. I show my client every property and give them advice on the price, area, schools, crime, etc... If you are worried that they are trying to push you into another price range than dump them and find another. This is a business.
Dream Realty is
[Link removed by moderator]
Dream Realty is
[Link removed by moderator]
- colin_scotsman
- Contributions:22
If you are uncomfortable using your gut-check then ask for references and call the people concerned.
You will not go wrong doing this.
Good luck
Colin
You will not go wrong doing this.
Good luck
Colin
- John Maddux, "JohnEMaddux"
- Contributions:11
Start by interviewing the agent and asking them this question. If they have any knowledge of the business the first thing out of their mouth will be "because I want your referrals." Any agent who wants to stay in this business wants to do the best they can for every client they have. The math is simple: One satisfied customer who got a great deal = a slightly smaller commission for me the agent + several referrals to new customers from the first customer + possibly repeat business. Those 5-10 referrals are worth the smaller commission every time in my book.
Hi Zillow User,
Interview multiple agents and try to work with someone that comes recommend from a trustworthy source. Meet with them in person and ask for a list of references from the agents recent clients that they have worked with in the past 3 months. Call them and interview them as well to make sure that it is a good fit.
You are ultimately hiring them so ask the tough questions!
I hope this helps and good luck out there!
Sincerely,
Bobby Graham with the Graham~Lombardi Real Estate Team in San Diego
- Nate Allen, "Crane Real Estate"
- Contributions:33
I provide my clients with the best service I possibly can, and give them honest and sound advice regardless of any opportunity to earn a larger commission. My motivation is based on two simple beliefs that I hold: 1. As an advisor it is my fiduciary duty to put my clients interest first. 2. The better I serve the interests of my clients, the more willing they will be to refer other to me.
I would much rather earn a smaller commission and gain an advocate, than earn a larger commission and have clients speak poorly of me. How do you find a Agent like me? Two ways: 1. Luck. 2. By asking people you trust who their Agent is, then using your best judgment.
- Binny Joseph, "BINNY JOSEPH"
- Contributions:34
You are employing the Buyer agent and paid from the part of the sales price. It is Buyer's agent responsibility to promote your best interest, be loyal to you, follow your lawful instructions, provide you with all material facts that could influnce your decision. Trust your Realtor as you trust you Doctor.
- Charlottesville Real Estate, "Charles McDonald"
- Contributions:230
Check referrals!
it is as simple as that
it is as simple as that
- Betina Foreman, "BetinaForeman"
- Contributions:284
I agree with Genevieve, 100% on this topic. Its NOT about making the biggest commission its about serving the customer. Just because the bank wants to give you $275K is NO reason to spend it all. I routinely tell buyers not to spend every penny they are approved for. Its always a good idea to have a cushion just in case. What if you want a new car, or want to vacation in Eurpoe, or all three of your children need braces or head off to college. If you max out your credit buying an enormous home, it may not be the most prudent way to invest your money.
- Genevieve Golden, "Land Waterfront Lady"
- Contributions:51
For me as a Realtor....Price is a consideration, but not the motivation. It is kind of like the Police moto for me. To protect and Serve. Recently I had a young couple that could afford up to 200k in a home. I talked them down, I like to place myself in someone elses shoes to see if it should or should not be a match. I ended up only showing them homes under 150, and we are currently under contract for 112. So not all Realtors are motivated by what thier commission will be. Some are motivated to protect and help thier clients get the most for thier money. Guess I have a different perspective. Why pay more when you don't have to.....
- Dave Dombrowski, "davedombrowski15"
- Contributions:55
Tell your buyer's agent you are looking for a home that they would eventually sell down the road. That would help motivate your agent to find the right location, layout and condition for you.
In regard to price, I don't feel that it is a factor unless you have a problem with your agent making $28 more on every increase of $1000. If your agent starts showing you houses for $100,000 more than you are looking for, you may have a problem.
In regard to price, I don't feel that it is a factor unless you have a problem with your agent making $28 more on every increase of $1000. If your agent starts showing you houses for $100,000 more than you are looking for, you may have a problem.
- Tiffany Bond, "TiffanyBond"
- Contributions:3010
@ Betina
Sadly, I do not have magical moderator properties - Zillow staff removed it. Welcome back.
Sadly, I do not have magical moderator properties - Zillow staff removed it. Welcome back.
- Coleen Donovan, "Plano Real Estate"
- Contributions:88
Ask a trusted friend to recomend the agent they used. Ask questions and build repoire with the agent. Become educated about the values in your area. Interview more than one agent and communicate what is important to you in the agent buyer relationship. Ask them to provide you the name and numbers of past clients to see what kind of testimonials they give about service received.
- Betina Foreman, "BetinaForeman"
- Contributions:284
Dear Tiffany,
Sorry about that. It has been too long since I posted here and I forgot about the website. I am sorry for the oversight. I would have removed it myself but thanks for doing it for me.
Sincerely,
Betina
Sorry about that. It has been too long since I posted here and I forgot about the website. I am sorry for the oversight. I would have removed it myself but thanks for doing it for me.
Sincerely,
Betina
- William Allen, "William Steven Allen"
- Contributions:46
The best idea is to interview several agents and see if there is one you click with. Making sure that your agent has you in mind is a trust issue that is felt and not really designated through the title of REALTOR.
- Tiffany Bond, "TiffanyBond"
- Contributions:3010
@ Betina:
FYI: Links to your site in posts are considered spam in this forum.
FYI: Links to your site in posts are considered spam in this forum.
- Betina Foreman, "BetinaForeman"
- Contributions:284
Designations are nice, but they don't prove that a Realtor really has your best interest at heart. They simply prove they have taken the classes and continue to pay for the designation each year. Ask to speak to a few of a potential Realtors past clients. Testimonials can be another good way to see what the Realtors relationships with past clients are like. Find someone that you can communicate with and that you feel good about. I wish you the best of luck finding the perfect Realtor for you!
Sincerely,
Betina
[link removed by moderator]
Sincerely,
Betina
[link removed by moderator]
- Christopher Johnson, "TampaHomeInfo"
- Contributions:41
There is no sure fire way to know the intent of your buyer's agent. I have heard some real horror stories and some really great stories. I don't think that having the ABR is a real indicator of who is there to really help you or themselves. The best advice I would recommend when choosing the right buyers agent is to talk with a few agents (before you see any properties) find out who you think will do the best job for you and whose personalities and values reflect yours.
A really good agent will not care about the dollar value of the home you are buying and since this is your first home they should be walking you through every step. If you find out during the process you do not like the agent then you need to break up with them and find someone new. Buying your first home should be a fun and exciting experience!
Good Luck
A really good agent will not care about the dollar value of the home you are buying and since this is your first home they should be walking you through every step. If you find out during the process you do not like the agent then you need to break up with them and find someone new. Buying your first home should be a fun and exciting experience!
Good Luck
- Katie Lakey & Kelly Lester, "Katie and Kelly"
- Contributions:122
Make sure you are working with someone who listens to you and your husband and really focuses on what your home needs are. Trust your instincts when meeting with an agent(s) and choose the person who is the best fit for you and your husband. If you are going to be buying soon then you are probably already pre approved for a certain price range making it difficult for an agent to try to get you to spend more than you can afford. I would never show a property to someone if it wasn't in their price range, that is just a waste of time for everyone.
- Cynthia Behr Smart Move!, "cynthiahbehr"
- Contributions:20
Trust your instincts. Work with an agent that you feel comfortable with and has good client feedback. Also, when purchasing a home a difference of about $5k for a sale price in most cases means less than $50 to the buying agent. A few grand difference on the purchase price of a home doesn't mean much for the commission for the agent.
- Sally English, "Sally English"
- Contributions:387
You have seen excellent advice above. Focus on the Buyers Agency Agreement once you have identified the Realtor you want to use. This is a key to making the negotiations all about you and your needs.
How do you make sure a buyer's agent has your best interests in mind?
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