No matter what task you are doing, a certain set of rules need to be followed, so that you can stay on the right path. Robin had Batman guiding him on how to seek justice the right way; Harry Porter had Dumbledore who always supported him with his unique magical powers and so on. Are you following us so far? So what do you do when you are looking for a home for sale in Oakland County, Michigan?
The home buying process has a lot of pitfalls that people cannot navigate on their own. So, who helps you get your dream house?
A real estate agent!
A real estate agent has plenty of skills such as knowledge about the real estate trends and the market, connections with the right people who will help you move further ahead in the process, long list of listings, information about comps and the ability to negotiate like a professional.
What to Look For in a Real Estate Agent
We understand that this is a huge investment and both your time and money is at stake. What most people do in these situations is take the FSBO route, which often results in a low ball offer. Forget about the commission because compared to it, the other expenses you will pay by taking this job yourself will be way higher.
So, the wise decision is to hire a real estate agent when looking at a home for sale in Oakland County, Michigan but not before you ask him the following ten questions:
Q1. When did you start working as a realtor?
Ans. Here, you are looking for the realtor’s experience. The longer he has been in the market, the better skills he will have in finding you a home for sale in Oakland County, Michigan. Make sure that the information he provides matches what was mentioned on his website.
Q2. Have you sold many houses?
Ans. If the realtor provides you with a number, then he has been active in the market. This person will know how to deal with complications through his experience.
Q3. Where are you licensed?
Ans. Do check with the state’s Real Estate Commission to make sure that the realtor is authorized to work in the area, which he claims.
Q4. When can I see the first house?
Ans. Speed matters and the answer to this question will tell you how often the agent will be in touch with you.
Q5. In which neighborhoods do you sell?
Ans. Make sure the client sells houses in the areas of your liking.
Q6. How much do you charge?
Ans. Find out if the realtor will ask for more money in case the negotiations run longer.
Q7. Can I talk to some of your clients?
Ans. Contact these clients and find out how the agent helped them during their home buying process.
Q8. How long will it take for you to show me a house with features that I requested?
Ans. The realtor should give you a time line from the time you sign him and to when he will hand over your new house keys.
Q9. Are there are any chances that I will get a home for sale in Oakland County in the neighborhood of my liking?
Ans. The realtor should be upfront with you at all times and not waste your time. Do follow his advice, if he thinks that something you are asking for is not possible.
Q10. Can you get me in touch with mortgage lenders?
Ans. This answer will tell you how well connected the realtor is in the industry.
You made it! Now, ask these questions from at least two more realtors and then pick the one you feel comfortable with. If you want to buy a home for sale in Oakland County, Michigan that falls under your budget and has all the features you need, then visit Homes2MoveYou. Get in touch with a real estate agent and start seeing houses in areas of your liking.