Buying property? We'll guide you.

Hiring a real estate agent to work with you is an important decision and will make all the difference in the home buying process. It is essential that you find an agent that listens to what is important to you and openly discusses your ideas, options and the reality of the local real estate market.

Our experience is that the majority of local real estate agents will look to work with you in a limited form of representation, known as a transaction broker relationship. While this form of representation includes several duties such as dealing honestly and fairly, it only requires limited confidentiality and you give up your rights to the undivided loyalty of the agent.

It is our company policy to represent our clients as single-agents with full fiduciary responsibilities, including the duties of confidentiality, loyalty, obedience, full disclosure, and disclosing all known facts that may materially affect the value.

Here are some of the qualities you should look for in a quality agent:

  • Does the agent have good knowledge of the neighborhood, local housing stock, history, culture and trends associated with the area? Do they know where the locals hang out?
  • Is the agent asking you specific questions to help you determine and define your wants, needs and preferences?
  • Do they say what they think or just what you want to hear?
  • Are they offering to represent you as a "transaction facilitator" or looking to work with you as a single-agent with full representation?
  • Is the agent up-to-date on recent sales as well as properties that are listed for sale?
  • Are they open and do they share any recent personal successes or failures?
  • What factual information and knowledge does the agent have to back-up why some homes sell for more or less than others in the area?
  • Are they being forthcoming and providing you will all the available and relevant information or just looking to push you to sign an offer?
  • Do you see the agent as a valuable resource on the local community, schools, shopping, recreation or available sources of financing?
  • Are they consistent in their efforts, time and commitment to working with you?

Here is a list of useful links and information when considering a neighborhood or location:

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