The 2022 Guide to Finding a Quality Realtor

The 2022 Guide to Finding a Quality Realtor |LendPro Mortgages

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There are many realtors (we’re talking in the millions) out there, but know that not all realtors are created equal. This fact is especially important in the current housing market in which expertise and skill are necessities in navigating the uncertain housing waters.

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Interested in finding the best realtor to make your dreams come true? This is the 2022 guide on how to find a good realtor near you! In this guide, we’ll be covering:

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• Qualities to look for in a realtor
• Resources to start your quality realtor search
• Must-ask questions to ask your realtor before signing with them

Qualities to Look For in a Realtor

A realtor’s character speaks a lot about how they operate in the day-to-day of their job. Here are some realtor green flag qualities we pride ourselves on at LendPro Mortgage and to look for in your realtor, too. 

Honesty

A transparent and honest realtor is the golden standard. Even if it’s not great news, you want to work with a realtor with your interest at heart. They give you realistic advice, price listings fairly, and inform you about any unforeseen issues that may arise during the process.

Active Listener

Everyone has their own unique financial and personal situations. This calls for a realtor who takes the time to actively listen and retain what you have to say. Realtors who actively listen can quickly assess your needs and formulate a plan based on the criteria you have set. 

Knowledge of the Industry

Realtors that stay up-to-date with the latest housing trends can offer both valuable advice and opportunities to their clients. This might mean having the opportunity to buy a dream house that’s off-market or being the first to know about a listing, among other things.

Persuasiveness

A persuasive realtor can use their skills to get you the housing upper hand. This may come in the form of reduced housing prices or better seller contract conditions that would have otherwise been impossible.

Interactive Communicator

Whether you’re buying or selling, the last thing you want is your realtor to ghost you for weeks at a time. They are enthusiastic and go out of their way to keep you updated in real-time. If a realtor is in constant communication with you, you can expect them to be in constant communication with others.

Resources to Start Your Quality Realtor Search

A simple “Realtors near me” Google search is the easiest – but often least reliable – method of finding a quality realtor. Here’s what you can do instead:

Stick to Friend and Family Referrals

In our industry, personal referrals are the most reliable since your friends and family will recommend someone they absolutely believe in. It's why we’ve prided ourselves on referrals at LendPro Mortgage. You’ll be in good favor with the realtor, and this might grant you access to reduced fees or special privileges.

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Still, what works for your friends and family isn’t guaranteed to work for you. Make sure to ask the questions covered in the next section.

Use Realtor Matching Services

Realtor matching services start with you filling out a questionnaire about your needs. Then, the service will match you with 2-3 local realtors that have been carefully screened based on your questionnaire. There are no obligations to work with the recommended realtors and many of these services are free.

Search the Internet – The Right Way

If you have to use the internet, there is a right way to find quality realtors. Stay away from the depths of Google and instead turn to reputable real estate websites. This quick 5-minute HubSpot post will help you pinpoint the industry’s best real estate websites.

Must-Ask Questions to Ask Your Realtor Before Signing With Them

Finally, the last step to finding the best realtor is to ask hard-hitting questions. The below questions will give you insight into the expertise, character, and work ethic of the realtor – as well as whether they are right for you.

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• How long have you been an agent?
• How many clients do you work with each year?
• Do you work with both buyers and sellers?
• Do you have experience in this particular area?
• Are your real estate licenses updated?
• How many buyer clients do you have currently?
• What’s the ratio of buyers to sellers that you represent?
• Do you have referrals that I can call?
• Will I be working with you individually, or with a team?

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Forming the Best Team

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Anyone who’s currently going through or has already gone through the housing process knows how important a quality realtor is. But it’s also just as important to get the right mortgage banker on your side, too. Contact us at LendPro Mortgage to make sure you’re building the best team to get you into the home of your dreams.

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