What you need to know about finding your Real Estate Agent

Sometimes looking for a real estate agent feels a bit like looking for a good doctor or dentist. Some people already have someone in mind and others have no clue where to begin. Well, don't worry, you are not alone. You may try to ask someone you know if they have a recommendation for you. But not all people work well for everyone. Sometimes you just need someone who feels right to you, and not just to your friend who recommended them. Wouldn't it be nice if once a week we could go out and shop for our doctors? We would have them all in one area and get to know a little, sort of like speed dating. We get to introduce ourselves, ask their opinion on a couple of things, and see what they think. Well, real estate agents have that and it's a great opportunity for you to meet your future realtor. It's called dadadada drum roll please...open houses. Yes, that's right, open houses. I know what you are thinking..."aren't the people in open houses there to find people to buy that house in particular?" The answer is yes. But it's also a great place to do some realtor shopping for you. When Sunday rolls around, try going by some open houses and just get to talking to the real estate agents that are there. If you know that it's not someone you want to work with, then go to some more open houses. Just get a good feel for how they are and whether they seem like someone you would want helping you to find or sell your home. You don't have to tell them you are shopping for an agent but grab their card on the way out and if you want to get to know them better, think of some things you'd like to ask them and give them a call. It's that easy. So if you are in the market for a real estate agent, one way to find one is by getting out on Sunday and stopping by some open houses...not only will you begin to see what else is on the market, but you'll get to meet some of your local realtors and hopefully find one that works for you!

Updated tip: When you meet agents at an open house, here are a few good questions to ask them to find out how on-their-game they are:

1. Ask them the most recent and closest sale was to this home they are selling.

2. Ask them questions about the house such as "How old the water heater is", "Where the furnace is located", and "What upgrades the sellers have done".  

A good agent should know most of these.