Buying property, whether it is a home for your family or commercial space to run your business, is a major investment. The same is true when you are the seller – you need to get the best price for the property you are selling. The internet is full of property listings and advice on how to buy and sell realestate.  The way the information is presented makes it sound so easy. The reality is very different. Whether you are a buyer or seller, you need to know the market conditions prevailing, the condition of the property, issues that impact the cost, the documentation that has to be completed to finalize the transaction, when and how to negotiate on the price, pro and cons of the locality and much more, These are matters that require experience and expertise that only a real estate agent can offer. Finding the right real estate agent means that you will get the best deal, either as a buyer or seller.

Real Estate Agent or Realtor?

Realtors and real estate agents may perform the same functions, but they are not the same thing. All Realtors are licensed function as an agent and sell real estate, but not all real estate agents are Realtors. The difference is that while agents must follow practices established by law, Realtors are members of the National Association of Realtors and follow a strict code of ethics which in many cases is more stringent than legal requirements. Knowing the difference will help you find the Realtor/agent you need.

Search the Internet

Real estate agent websites are among the most common on the web. Sifting through those in your area can be a slow and time-consuming task. A better option is to use a business directory to search for the top real estate agents. Look up the profiles of the individual agents and focus on the experience and client reviews to find those who may be right for you. You can also consider the Realtors Winnipeg management as a helping hand for your property, especially when you are living in Canada.

Search Print Media

Look in the community newspaper or newsletter of the area you are interested infor property listings. Agents use these for two reasons. The first is to focus on a specific market. Secondly, to establish themselves as specialists in real estate in that particular area. Check out the websites of those agents who attract your attention. There could be a specialist in the area you want to buy or sell in that could be right for you.

Ask for Recommendations

Asking friends, neighbors, coworkers, or a property management company for the names of agents who have worked for them and whom they have been happy with is always a good idea. The firsthand experience of someone you know will tell you what you can expect from an agent.

While asking for recommendations, be clear about your need. For example, if you want to sell your house as-is in Southern California without spending much on repairs or cleaning, then SoCal Home Buyers are the best option. Likewise, you can also search on the web using specific search phrases like “no commission real estate agents,” which will help you narrow down the best real estate agents.

Search For Listing Signs 

Keep track of all the listing signs in the area where you want to buy or sell. Note down how long the signs are up before a sold notice is placed over them. Those agents whose signs stay up for the shortest time may be those who are the most effective in selling. They could be as good in buying.

Go to Open Houses

Going to open houses allows you to meet real estate agents in a relaxed atmosphere. Watch how they interact with prospective buyers. Those who do a professional job will usually be as good when it comes to helping a client buy property. Get the contact details of those agents who impress you and follow up with them.

Finding the best real estate agent starts with having a database of the leading agents in the area. Once you have that, you can use the parameters given above to narrow down the field and find the one that is right for you.