The average home sells in just 15 days in this competitive housing market. To make matters more challenging, the supply of homes available on the market is down by 23% from just a year ago.
Whether you’re buying a first home, a new home, or selling your home, to be ready to handle this meteoric real estate market, you need to work with a real estate agent who knows what they’re doing.
While there are many available real estate agents out there, you want to find one who not only understands your needs but also has the hustle to help you navigate this market as a buyer or a seller.
So, how do you find top real estate agents who can get the job done for you? If you’re looking for the right Nassau County real estate agent for you, read on to learn more.
1. Find an Advocate
In today’s hyper-competitive market, you need a real estate agent who will most of all advocate for you and your interests.
As a home buyer, you want the agent to work fast and hard to get you into a property that seems like the right fit for you before it’s back off the market again. You also want that agent working to make sure you make the right offer, so they need to know where the market stands and be able to communicate that well to you.
As a seller, you want the agent to work to get you the best price without pricing yourself out of the fast sale.
Sure, it’s nice to have an agent who can calm you and guide you during a sometimes emotional process. Most importantly, you want a real estate agent who is out in the market advocating for your best interests.
2. Interview the Agent
Too often, especially for buyers, they fall into using an agent because of a house they look into. Before you even begin looking, take the time to interview a prospective agent.
Ask some tough questions to make sure you’re getting the best agent for you. Things you want to know:
- What experience do you have in real estate?
- How long have you been working in real estate in this area?
- What challenges will I have to overcome to buy or sell my house?
- How are you paid?
- Will you be working with me directly or an assistant?
Ask the agent to talk to you about the market and what you should expect based on your wants and needs.
As a buyer, you want to know how your agent will navigate a bidding war. As a seller, you want to know what the agent thinks you need to do to be prepared for selling.
3. Ask for References
Many people feel awkward about this step, but you shouldn’t. Remember, your agent is working for you, just like a doctor or a mechanic.
Ask your prospective real estate agent to provide you with references that you can call to ask about their experience using this real estate agent.
4. Consider Availability
While an agent who has many listings on the market shows they are well known. It might also mean they don’t have the time needed to dedicate to you.
In this market, things happen fast. You want to know you have a real estate agent who’s available to do the work with you.
Also, consider if the agent will be available for you when you’re available.
5. Know the Local Market
You want to find a real estate agent who knows the Nassau County market. You need an agent who’s a localist and understands the specific features of the community you are in or hope to buy into.
In a competitive market, hiring a real estate agent who is knowledgeable about the area becomes even more significant. They need to be able to study the data for the market to guide you as to the price of your home or make an offer.
6. Your Interests Are Paramount
This is a tricky one to figure out, but don’t be shy about discussing loyalty with a real estate agent.
You want to hire a real estate agent whose main focus is you as the client over the commission.
It can get complicated, for example, if the agent is representing both the buyer and the seller. Or their advice hinges on the commission versus providing you with the best advice based on the available market data.
You also don’t want to work with an agent who pressures you into making a decision before you’re ready to do it.
7. Consider Your Gut Feeling
You are going to spend some time with your real estate agent. You need their professional expertise and advice.
There’s a fine balance between the real agent who’s out there working on your behalf and one who will guide you through the process of buying or selling.
Spend a little time with an agent before you officially sign on with them to make sure you feel comfortable with their style and communication methods.
8. Do Your Research
Finally, just like you’re going to research communities to live in and research financing options, you want to research the real estate agent too.
Get online and do a search on the agent. What are other clients saying about the agent? Read reviews, remembering that sometimes there will always be people who’re disgruntled.
When you read reviews, look for trends that give you information about the agent.
Working With Real Estate Agents for Nassau Real Estate
While there are many real estate agents working, finding the right one can make all the difference in your buying or selling experience. Use these tips to help you find the best Nassau County real estate agent for your needs.
If you’re in the market to buy or sell, we can help you. Contact us today to meet with one of our qualified Nassau County real estate agents.